Page created by: Annie Adams

In January of 2015, my mother, best friend, and the most positive role model in my life was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Hearing the news felt like getting hit by a semi-truck. I could barely breath. All I wanted to do was hug her and tell her it would be ok like she has done for me many times throughout my life. Her diagnosis was also extremely difficult because I didn't know much about the disease so my mind just ran with questions. However, like every other difficult time in our life, her strength and positivity shone through, and she reassured me that everything was going to be ok and that we would fight the battle together. And since that day, our family has been doing just that.

On Sunday, April 24th, I will be running the Big Sur Marathon in support of Team Fox and in honor of my mother, Carol Adams, and her ongoing battle with this disease. It is fitting that April is Parkinson's Awareness Month as well. While the Big Sur Marathon will be a memorable experience for me in that it will be my ninth marathon and a bucket list item I have always wanted to check off my list, having the opportunity to represent Team Fox and completing this marathon for a bigger purpose makes it that much more impactful.

I ask you to join my efforts to support the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Parkinson's research, and Carol Adams as I complete the 26.2 mile course along the beautiful, hilly coastline of Northern California. Every dollar raised will go directly to Team Fox and the mission to find a cure for Parkinson's disease. Mom, I can't wait to see you at the finish line and hug you and tell you, "everything will be ok."

About Parkinson's
Six million people worldwide are living with Parkinson's disease, a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder. In the United States, 60,000 new cases will be diagnosed this year alone. There is no known cure for Parkinson's disease, however, through support of Team Fox and Parkinson's research, we can help change this.

About Team Fox
Team Fox is The Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) grassroots community fundraising program. Its members include thousands of people worldwide who generate funds and awareness for Parkinson's disease research. All funds raised through Team Fox go directly to MJFF to advance its mission to accelerate the delivery of life-changing treatments, and ultimately a cure, to people with Parkinson's disease.