An interview with John W. Kozyak, Both Parents Battled Parkinson’s Disease
Biography
I grew up in an industrial town outside of St. Louis and have been a lawyer for 50 years in Miami.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
I joined the Board of Directors of the National Parkinson Foundation about 17 years ago and successfully led the effort to merge NPF with the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, which created the Parkinson’s Foundation. I am on the Emeritus Board. I am also on the Board of the Fresco Institute Italia in Florence, Italy
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I got involved to honor my Mother and to learn more about the genetic links.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I believe I provide hope and connections for people living with PD
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
Raise money and recruit more volunteers
What events do you participate in?
Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day, Revolution, wine receptions, educational programs, etc
How does this also assist the caregivers?
The Parkinson’s Foundation has an amazing website, Helpline, and programs for caregivers
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
The Parkinson’s Foundation website is www.parkinson.org. my email is jk@kttlaw.com
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
The Parkinson’s Foundation is always looking for Ambassadors.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Sincerity and empathy
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Educating people about what the Parkinson’s Foundation does.
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
PD is the fastest growing neurological disease and will keep increasing, as the environmental damage accumulates.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
Yes, both parents and my father’s first cousin
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
It’s a Wonderful Life
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Treat PD as an annoyance and not a death sentence.