For twelve straight years, Cathy Wesalowski has participated in Parkinson’s awareness walks. Because for her it’s personal.

In May of 2014, the Norfolk resident was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. A subtle and unexpected symptom—a tremor in a finger—led to the life-changing news.

The discovery was extremely difficult for Wesalowski and her family. They were already navigating major life moments and looking forward to the future. “It just kind of took the wind out of our sails,” she said.

As the initial shock settled, a new approach began to take shape. Rather than being defined by the diagnosis, Wesalowski has navigated her journey on her own terms. The very next day, she hit the gym, after learning that high-intensity exercise can help manage the disease.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, incurable neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. It leads to movement issues like tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, but it affects each person differently. It is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disease in the country, eclipsing even Alzheimer’s.

Today, Wesalowski remains a visible and active presence in the local Parkinson’s community, participating in events, staying involved with fitness programs, and working to support others living with Parkinson’s. Her involvement grew through the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), where she now volunteers and serves on the board.

On Sunday, May 17, Wesalowski will participate in the 40th annual ADPA Optimism Walk in Framingham. The event draws hundreds of participants from throughout the region, bringing awareness to the disease and providing resources and support for families.

“When people get diagnosed, it’s a 15-minute doctor visit and you walk out of the doctor’s office devastated, not knowing what to do,” she said. “And APDA is there to help people.” 

Wesalowski has helped expand local programming for people with Parkinson’s, including working with the YMCA to support classes such as spinning, water exercise, yoga, tai chi, and movement programs tailored to those living with the disease.

She’s also participated eight times in the New England Parkinson’s Ride. That event is held in Maine and is a major supporter of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Local support has been a key part of her journey. Wesalowski notes friends and community groups, especially the Norfolk Lions, have assisted with events and fundraising efforts tied to Parkinson’s programs.

Learning to live with the unknown has been a challenge. Wesalowski’s current symptoms include feeling cold constantly, vocal cord issues, and dry eyes. Two years ago, despite focusing on hydration and electrolyte balance to manage symptoms related to her autonomic nervous system, her body was not absorbing fluids properly. That led to episodes of very low blood pressure and significant stomach issues. She turned to deep brain stimulation, a surgical treatment, to help manage her condition.

Despite her daily difficulties, she remains committed to helping others with the disease. For those newly diagnosed, her message is simple and consistent.

“Get to the gym, get to the workout,” she said. 

Equally important, she said, is building connections. Wesalowski wants people to know they are not alone, and that drives her.

“Those of us that have the disease support each other,” she emphasized. “We are always there for each other.”

For Wesalowski, that sense of community is what keeps her moving forward—one step, and one walk, at a time.

For more information on the APDA Optimism Walk on May 17, visit https://www.apdaparkinson.org/community/massachusetts. To support Wesalowski, visit her donation page at https://tinyurl.com/46kujhb7.