The Fox Focus Fall/Winter 2018 | Page 9

Policy “We’ve All Got to Fight This Together” Former Pennsylvania governor on life with Parkinson’s IN JUNE, former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell announced he has been living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) for more than three years. “The first emotion I felt in the doctor’s office when he told me I had Parkinson’s was surprise,” says Rendell, who served as governor of Pennsylvania from 2003 to 2011 and mayor of Philadelphia from 1992 to 2000. “I always felt like I was indestructible. It’s jarring to find out you’re not.” Edward G. Rendell, 45th Governor (D) of Pennsylvania (2003-2011) “Disease research is an issue that transcends politics,” he says. Despite the shocking news, Rendell wasn’t afraid. Prior to his diagnosis, he was no stranger to PD. “My mom had Parkinson’s disease, and I was involved with some local Philadelphia area Parkinson’s organizations, so I was familiar enough with the disease,” he notes. “So while I wasn’t afraid, I was concerned about whether there was a treatment right for me.” Soon after diagnosis, his doctor wanted him to go public, but Rendell was hesitant. He wanted to see how his treatment regimen would impact his symptoms and well-being. Now, he feels like he has a much better understanding of what it’s like to have Parkinson’s and how it’s possible to live well with the disease. Rendell also has incorporated Parkinson's advocacy into his life post-diagnosis. As a former politician, he has relationships with several members of Congress, and he’s made calls urging them to support PD research funding. Rendell encourages everyone in the Parkinson’s community to reach out to their lawmakers on this important topic. “I’m ready to tell people that the sooner they’re diagnosed and receive treatment, the better their chances are of maintaining a higher quality of life.” “Disease research is an issue that transcends politics,” he says. “We’ve all got to fight this together to get better treatments and work toward a cure, and advocate strongly. Medical research right now is amazing, and there’s progress made every day. We need to increase research dollars to keep it going.” With a combination of medication and exercise, Rendell feels great. He sees a physical trainer and takes part in a workout that focuses on balance and reflexes, as well as cognitive abilities and overall confidence. 9 Fall/Winter 2018