04/10/2026
April is Parkinson's Awareness month - a time for reflection, education, and renewed commitment. For me, it also marks one full year since I stepped away from my role as Chief Medical Officer at the end of April 2025, a decision rooted in the reality of my health and the need to focus on my own journey with Parkinson's disease.
Over the past year, my experience with Parkinson’s has been anything but linear. There have been moments where I felt strong, capable, and thriving - and others where I have been fully dependent on those around me. It has been humbling, frustrating, and at times overwhelming. Like many living with chronic illness, I have had to learn, sometimes the hard way, that pushing through is not always the answer. Pausing, resting, and caring for myself has been essential.
During this time, one of the greatest sources of pride in my life has been helping to build The Parky Club alongside my husband and our dedicated board of directors. What began as an idea has grown into a meaningful effort to bring Parkinson's support, connection, and resources to our local community. It has truly been - and continues to be - a labor of love.
I will be honest: I have felt guilt. Guilt that I have not been able to move things forward as quickly or as fully as I had hoped. But I am learning that progress does not always follow a straight path, and that taking care of my health is not stepping away from the mission - it is part of sustaining it.
I am deeply grateful for my husband, who has been a constant and steadfast partner through every high and low. I am equally thankful for the many friends, patients, and members of this community who have lifted me up with their encouragement, kindness, and unwavering support. You have carried me on days when I could not carry myself.
Despite a challenging start to 2026, I am proud to share that I will be completing 19.3 miles at Disney World this month - participating in a 5K, 10K, and 10-mile race over three consecutive days. This milestone is not just about distance; it is a reflection of resilience, support, and determination. I could not do this without all of you.
With that said, I also approach this moment with bittersweet clarity. This will likely be my final distance race. I had once hoped to take on the Honolulu marathon later this year, but I have come to understand the importance of listening to what my body truly needs. That, too, is part of this journey.
Even with the many adjustments and changes life has required, I remain grounded in gratitude. The relationships I have built, the love I have experienced, and the support I continue to receive are gifts I will never take for granted. They fuel me, especially on the hardest days.
So please- don't give up on me yet.
The Parky Club is still here. It is still growing. And it is still on its way to doing meaningful, impactful work in our community. It may take longer than I once envisioned, but we will get there - together.
Thank you for walking this journey with me.
-Sheranda
Dr. S. Gunn-Nolan
