An interview with Gary Appelsies: From Diagnosis to Determination: A Parkinson’s Patient’s Story
Biography
A seasoned and highly accomplished professional with experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. His expertise lies in supporting people of all ages to stay healthy and active. Throughout his career, he has traveled across the country and touched thousands of lives. He has worked with state and local government entities to ensure the health and wellness of all communities. A charismatic speaker, Gary was a pioneer in teaching medical students how to talk to and teach their patients about eating and staying healthy through Culinary Medicine. In his current role as Director of Operations for Senior Resource Alliance, Gary helps to ensure that Seniors and their families have the tools, information and resources they need to age in place and stay healthy and active.
Gary is committed to empowering individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Diagnosed in January 2020, Gary has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of this condition and the often-difficult diagnosis. He is passionate about helping others find the right professionals and treatments and is actively involved in raising awareness and advocating for improved care. As Board member for the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, Gary works to help advance research, support patient services, and improve the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s.
Gary has a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the New England Culinary Institute, as well as a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Pace University. Gary also holds a Master’s degree in Integrative Health and Nutrition Science from the University of Bridgeport. Most recently, he received the Lean Six Sigma Certification from Emory University.
Gary grew up in New York and currently resides in Central Florida. In addition to his work with the American Parkinson’s Disease Association he was recently honored as a Leader of Impact in Central Florida by the American Heart Association.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
My Advocacy Most of my Advocacy is done with individuals and helping them to navigate doctors, PT/OT, Speech Therapy, etc.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure? I have been aware of Parkinson’s since I was a child.
My grandfather had Parkinson’s, and I was always concerned that my father or uncle would get it. So I did research on the disease and was always interested in the latest treatments. But once I was diagnosed, I became even more passionate. Of course, now it was me, this was my life, my families’ lives. I read more, I contacted MJFF, Parkinson’s Foundation and APDA. There is just not enough information out there for people who are newly diagnosed. I needed to help and support more.
What type of goals does individuals with Parkinson’s have when seeing your Advocacy?
Mostly, when I talk to people about PD it’s about “What now!” “Where do I Turn?” What do I do?” and helping people navigate the road ahead.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Advocacy has a huge effect not just on the individual but on the entire family. It helps people understand how PD is not the same for everyone and the needs of PD patients vary from person to person. It teaches people how to advocate for themselves and where and how to do research. It also teaches the importance of a care partner.
 What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
- Accelerate Research and Development
- Improve Access to Care
- Enhance Quality of Life
- Advocate for Policy Change
By working together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of people with Parkinson’s and move closer to a future without this disease.
What events do you participate in?
I participate in Parkinson’s walks and health fairs, I have done pedaling for PD classes, Rock Steady Boxing and Pint’s for PD events.
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How does this also assist the caregivers?
Any event that can be attended by family and caregivers assists them in learning more and connecting with other care partners and learning together.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Just get out there, talk to people, connect and learn.
In your opinion, what is the key to effective advocacy?Â
Being educated and keeping up with current information and studies.
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
This is a great question.
- Leverage Technology and Social Media
- Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships
- Engaging Community Events or create your own
- Peer-to-Peer Fundraising
- Targeted Philanthropy:
- Collaborate with Other Organizations:
By combining these strategies and fostering a strong community of supporters, we can significantly increase funding for Parkinson’s research and bring us closer to a cure.
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Would you like to delve deeper into any of these strategies or discuss specific fundraising ideas tailored to your organization?
- Crowdfunding Platforms, Social Media Campaigns, Virtual Events, Corporate Sponsorships, Matching Gift Programs
- Community Walks and Runs, Charity Auctions and Dinners, Fitness Challenges Team Fundraising, encourage friends and family to form teams and fundraise together.
- Fundraising Challenges: Set up challenges like “Walk a Mile a Day” or “Donate a Dollar a Day” to motivate supporters.
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
Walking, rock steady boxing, bicycle riding
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Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?Â
Supporting Parkinson’s research and advocacy is not just a matter of compassion; it’s an investment in our collective future. By working together, we can create a world where neurodegenerative diseases are no longer a threat.
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Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My Grandfather
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
Funny that you ask this question. Currently Dance with Everybody by Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors is on my playlist and my theme song.
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Until a cure is found let’s embrace every moment, celebrate victories and most importantly support all those who are on this journey. You are not in it alone, lean on those who care and most importantly SHARE your story and inspire others with your strength. Don’t be afraid of the diagnosis and put yourself out there.