Shan Havins

Idaho Falls, Idaho

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2023 at 36 years old, although I had been experiencing symptoms for several years prior to my diagnosis. I immediately immersed myself in all the Parkinson’s research, resources, support groups, podcasts, and social media spaces I could find. I learned very quickly that, although the Parkinson’s diagnosis is rough, the Parkinson’s community is incredible.

My definition of living well with Parkinson’s changes a little bit each day. For now, it is approaching life with curiosity rather than judgement, finding joy wherever I can, giving myself and the people around me grace, seeking the opportunities that lie within the challenges, and continuing to move forward through any adversity that comes my way.

When I began my Parkinson’s journey, the Davis Phinney Foundation resources were incredibly helpful to me. Between the Every Victory Counts® manual, blog, podcast, and webinars, I found answers to almost every question I had. Because the Davis Phinney Foundation had such a positive impact on my life, I was excited about the opportunity to share their resources with others.

I am also excited to connect with others in the Parkinson’s community, and to help people find what living well with Parkinson’s means to them.

In my free time, I love hanging out with my wife and young son, learning new things, being physically active, and spending time in nature.

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