Page created by: Patricia ` Whitley

Gerald is my cousin. He was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's Disease in his early 40's. He is now 58. He had deep brain stimulation surgery (DBS) at Emory Hospital (Atlanta) in September, 2015. He was awake (as required) most of the 13-hour surgery. And, he is part of a clinical trial where his installed "software system" tweaks how it affects his tremors and other Parkinson's systems. He is one of the bravest men I know. He lives alone and has always has done this since his diagnosis. He works as an Oracle database administrator and has not stopped working since his diagnosis and he remains employed in the same crucial IT role he has held almost the entire time he has had the active diagnosis. Despite his erratic dyskinesias, he remained an active family member and continues to do so - although his surgery two years ago has made great improvements here. The other thing that is amazing to me is that he is never late for work - even though he has to get up very early to dress himself. He remains upbeat, having not experienced the depression and anxiety that can inherently come with Parkinson's disease. He's actually funny with a hearty laugh and a great outlook to the future -- and a future permanent cure.

My cousin is my hero for many reasons related to the way he has overcome the many challenges of Parkinson's. It is great to have a way to pay tribute to his perseverance, courage and humor.