Unlocking Strength Within: Working with Parkinson’s
In this session of Unlocking Strength Within, special guests Keith Fritz, Sharon Gillardi, and Luis Torrez, Jr. discussed the realities of managing a career with Parkinson’s, offered practical advice on overcoming challenges, making adaptations, and finding new opportunities, and also answered audience questions live.
Watch the broadcast now on APDA’s YouTube Channel and be sure to subscribe to the APDA YouTube channel for more informative and important resources for Parkinson’s disease:
About Our Speakers
KEITH FRITZ
Keith Fritz is 54 years old, and was diagnosed with PD 12 years ago in 2013. He successfully navigated DBS surgery in 2020. Keith started his career in education as an English teacher but has enjoyed his role as a middle/high school principal for the last 23 years. He served on the APDA Iowa Chapter’s Board of Directors after his diagnosis, and organized an annual 5K fundraiser for the organization. An avid hunter and fisherman, he and his wife together enjoy their hobby farm and riding horses. Among his greatest accomplishments are his two children, Evan and Ella, and his most precious treasures are his granddaughters, Juniper and Olive.
SHARON GILLARDI
Sharon Gillardi of St. Louis, MO, was diagnosed with PD in 2014. Sharon is a wife of 44 years, the mother of three adult children (+two bonus children), and has five grandchildren. She recently retired from a 44-year career as a registered nurse, with the last 30 of those years as a nurse anesthetist. Since her PD diagnosis, Sharon has spent her time balancing a demanding career, home life, doctor visits, and family. She has focused on maximizing her health by exercising to maintain physical strength and balance and cognitive function. With the freedom retirement brings, she feels she now has the time to assist, educate, and share experiences with others affected by PD.
LUIS TORREZ, JR.
Luis Torrez, Jr. was born and raised in the Montebello area of Los Angeles, CA. He graduated from CSULA in 1990 with a BS in Business Administration, and worked in the transportation and logistics industry for 33 years, retiring in July 2023. In 2018, he was diagnosed with Parkinsonian Syndrome after experiencing symptoms 1-2 years prior.
Anushka Shiell, Moderator
Anushka Shiell is the National Director of Programs and Services with the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). She plans APDA educational programs, including the Thriving Through Occupational Therapy and Unlocking Strength Within webinar series, and provides support for APDA PRESS™ support groups and Connecting Through Art programs nationwide. She worked closely with the Parkinson’s community and support groups throughout Minnesota in her previous role as an APDA Information & Referral Coordinator.
ANUSHKA SHIELL, MODERATOR
Anushka Shiell is the National Director of Programs and Services with the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). She plans APDA educational programs, including the Thriving Through Occupational Therapy and Unlocking Strength Within webinar series, and provides support for APDA PRESS™ support groups and Connecting Through Art programs nationwide. She worked closely with the Parkinson’s community and support groups throughout Minnesota in her previous role as an APDA Information & Referral Coordinator.