One Person’s Story. Thousands of Reasons For Hope.
APDA Northwest Chapter Board Member Jake Miller joined the APDA Optimism Walk with one goal: to share his Parkinson’s journey and invite others to support a cause that’s deeply meaningful to him. The response has been extraordinary. Currently, Jake has raised more than $160,000, with support from hundreds of donors across 42 states and nine countries.
He’s quick to point out that this story isn’t about him, it’s about those who support APDA and those who will benefit from it. Whether it’s $100 or $100,000, every dollar raised advances APDA’s mission.
Jake was diagnosed with PD a few years ago and learned that it affects far more than movement, it touches caregivers, friends, and entire families. By sharing his story, he’s heard from more than a thousand people whose lives have been impacted by the disease.
“This journey has little to do with fundraising. It’s the reminder that kindness knows no boundaries.” — Jake Miller
His Optimism Walk team name is Steps Toward a Cure because he believes every step moves us closer to better treatments and a cure. His fundraising goal is $172,339, based on the number of inches in a marathon, plus an extra mile, and reflects his belief that PD is a marathon, not a sprint, and that it’s always worth going the extra mile.
Rooted in optimism, Jake says “a positive attitude doesn’t change a PD diagnosis, but it can change how we face it, support one another, and inspire others.”
Visit apdaparkinson.org/optimism-walks to learn how to participate in your local Optimism Walk or support APDA’s mission through a donation.