Kristi LaMonica
Troy, New York
I was clinically diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s (YOPD) in 2020. I never thought I’d say this, but I feel incredibly grateful to be part of the Parkinson’s community (we have an AWESOME community). And I love that I keep finding myself in positions where I have opportunities to make positive changes—being able to advocate in all aspects of my life, whether as a scientist, an educator, a woman, or a young onset woman, is incredibly powerful. I am very proud of all the fantastic work I have been a part of for the PD Avengers and WPC working groups and now this Foundation. Having these outlets is how I live well with Parkinson’s.
Living well with Parkinson’s means advocating for myself and our community. It also means taking care of myself with daily exercise and gratitude. Every day might not be awesome, but there is something awesome about every day!
When I’m not teaching, advocating, or exercising, you’ll find me
sitting in my backyard with my husband, two rescue border collies, and our cat VanGogh (Gogo). I also enjoy cooking with my mom, hiking with my best friend and family, weightlifting, and learning from my students.