When Lisa Cormack’s daughter Jaina was 4 years old, she went to the pediatrician for a typical preschool physical. A healthy, happy kid, there was no reason to fear anything abnormal or concerning would be discovered as part of the checkup.
John Galas has spent most of his life around soccer. At an early age, he developed a deep passion for the sport and embraced the competitive spirit inherent in it. This mindset that proved invaluable when he faced his toughest opponent yet: cancer.
Layne Oliff was an active runner who successfully completed 10-mile trail runs up until his 60th birthday — before he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in November of 2020. Layne soon pivoted that same drive and commitment to another journey, as an active advocate in the ALS community.
Judy Ashley is one of four siblings living with PKD. The family lost their mother when she was just 61, due to complications from dialysis. All five family members and one of Ashley’s nieces received transplants. “My energy now goes to empowering my daughter to be her own advocate,” Ashley explained. “I keep telling her, if it doesn’t make sense, if you don’t agree with [the treatment plan] keep asking questions.”
Dr. Kevin Kwok and Sarah Zenner-Dolan are drawn together by more than their respective experiences living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Both have stepped up as champions for those living with PD.
