A Mother–Daughter Conversation on Living with Parkinson’s
Hi, we are Naomi and Ruby, a mother–daughter duo navigating the daily challenges of Parkinson’s together!
From Naomi
“Diagnosed at a time when my kids were in elementary school was a shock to me. I knew I needed to understand the disease, learn about it, and share the journey with my kids and family. If I had a do-over, I would have found out more information before breaking the news. I realize now that I needed more space to learn and accept Parkinson’s. But with that, in time, my children and I created open dialogue and communication which has not only saved but strengthened our relationships.
One of the things I like most is when we laugh, finding humor even in Parkinson’s. Life is too short to keep from laughing even when things are hard. I have to accept that I can only do the best I can even when it feels like my disability holds me back. Instead, I must look at what I can still do as a mom or parent. I may have Parkinson’s but I am not Parkinson’s. I am much more, and one of those things is being a mom which I wouldn’t give up for anything.”
From Ruby
“Growing up with a parent who has Parkinson’s, I experienced the process of grief from a young age. My mom is my hero, not because she is like all the other moms, but because in her weakness, she is strong. Some days, you can find me in tears, saddened by her decline in health. Other days, I am wide smiles and filled with pride over who my mom is and the way she rallies her community towards PD support. I am more empathetic, emboldened in my compassion, and hopeful because of the relationship I have with my mom.”
We hope that the journey of navigating a parent–child relationship with Parkinson’s is one filled with love and support for one another.
– Ruby and Naomi Estolas
Naomi Estolas is a Parkinson's advocate. She was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2015 and currently lives in Marina, California. She has a daughter and son. Naomi has attended past WPC Congresses. She is currently WPC 2026 Ambassador.
Ideas and opinions expressed in this post reflect that of the author(s) solely. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the World Parkinson Coalition®