I was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s disease in 2020 at the age of 40. I am a wife, mother of two, advocate, co-founder of YOPD Connection in Irvine, California, and a triple-negative breast cancer survivor.

Living with Parkinson’s and navigating cancer taught me the importance of community, connection, and finding people who truly understand the journey. Through advocacy, peer support, and my support group, I work to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and help others feel less alone.

My goal is to show that Parkinson’s can affect anyone, not just older adults, and to continue sharing my story in a way that brings hope, understanding, and connection to others facing life’s unexpected challenges. You can also find me on Instagram at @joanieanyway.