Page created by: The Samara Family

My dad came to the United States when he was only 17 years old. Unaware of what awaited him in this vast country, he believed a world-class education and a career of service to his community were the keys to a life of happiness and fulfillment. My sisters and I would not be where we are today or have had the opportunities we've been fortunate with over the years without the sacrifices that our parents made for us and their unending support.

My dad has been battling Parkinson's Disease for 18 years and, as such, it has visibly taken a toll on his body. Before the disease, he was very active -- he enjoyed tennis and soccer, building and flying kites with his (once) little daughters, and carefully tending his garden, growing the best-tasting tomatoes and eggplants from seed. I cannot begin to describe how difficult it has been to see his mobility stripped away from him and his voice, which once told stories of growing up as a young boy halfway across the world, diminished to a whisper. I have come to realize that my mom is the strongest person I know, as she has selflessly cared for my dad all these years. In the face of all this, my sisters and I will always vow to do whatever we can to help both my dad and mom have as peaceful a way of life as possible.

I have faith that a cure for PD exists.

I support organizations with a heavy research focus, such as the Michael J. Fox Foundation, in the hope that I see the end of this disease in my lifetime.

I support my dad.