WALKING WITH PURPOSE: MARTIN’S INSPIRING OPTIMISM
When Martin Richter was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2013, it felt like the world had caved in. Like many newly diagnosed individuals, he struggled with what the future might hold. But Martin made a choice to fight back.
Martin’s symptoms began subtly: reduced handwriting, a shuffling walk, tremors, and changes in his speech. After receiving his diagnosis, he began treatment with carbidopa/levodopa, which immediately helped ease his symptoms.
Encouraged by a 60 Minutes segment featuring Leslie Stahl and her husband’s experience with PD and how boxing was helping his quality of life, Martin was urged by his three children and his partner to look into Rock Steady Boxing. Despite a long drive to the boxing program at NYIT (a former APDA Information & Referral Center), Martin joined and found the program transformative. “It significantly slowed the progressive aspects of PD,” he shares. He continues boxing to this day — now also training in Sarasota, Florida.
“Participating in Parkinson’s programs and events builds friendships and community. The bonds you create are a real positive.” – Martin Richter
Martin’s drive to stay active and connected led him to the APDA Long Island Optimism Walk. Embracing the spirit of teamwork, he joined the event four years ago as part of NYIT’s Rock Steady team. Year after year, Martin ranks among the event’s top fundraisers, having raised more than $35,000 to date to support APDA’s mission. And he’s gearing up to do it all again this October!
The enthusiasm from his children, grandchildren, siblings, and others has made a big difference. His secret to successful fundraising? “Getting your whole family involved in the fundraising makes it more effective,” he says. “The more people we collectively ask, the more money we can raise.”
After a career that brought him to places like Japan, Vietnam, France, and Italy, Martin now splits his time between Long Island, NY; Sarasota, FL; and New York City. But no matter where he is, he brings his energy and optimism with him.
Martin is walking proof that when you fight back — and walk forward — with optimism, you can make a real impact.
If you’d like to follow in Martin’s footsteps and join the APDA Long Island Optimism Walk (or another Optimism Walk near you) register today.