In a story of resilience and advocacy, Allison Signorelli, a resident of Dominion Hills in Arlington, has been nationally recognized for her tireless work in raising awareness and supporting research for Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s in 2022 at the age of 47, Signorelli has transformed her personal challenge into a powerful platform for change.
This article delves into Signorelli’s journey, from the initial symptoms and diagnosis to her advocacy efforts and the prestigious Citizen Scientist Cultivator Award she received. We will explore her impact on the Parkinson’s community, her work with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and her unwavering commitment to finding a cure. Signorelli’s story is a testament to the power of action in the face of adversity, inspiring hope and driving progress in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.
The Onset: Recognizing the Early Signs of Parkinson’s
Signorelli’s journey with Parkinson’s began subtly. In 2018, while watching her daughter’s soccer tryouts, she experienced an unusual muscle spasm in her right ankle. Initially dismissed as stress or a vitamin deficiency, the tremor persisted and gradually worsened. By 2020, simple tasks like writing or eating became increasingly difficult. It wasn’t until 2022, during a college tour with her daughter, that a doctor suggested the possibility of Parkinson’s disease.
Following a visit to a specialist at GW University Hospital, Signorelli received the life-altering diagnosis of early-onset Parkinson’s disease. The news was met with “a moment of grief and fear,” as she learned about the incurable and progressive nature of the condition. However, this initial reaction was quickly replaced by a determination to take action.
“I heard a quote once that said, ‘the antidote to despair is action,’ and that really has been my guiding light,” Signorelli said.
From Patient to Advocate: Engaging with Research and the Parkinson’s Community
True to her word, Signorelli immediately channeled her energy into advocacy. Shortly after her diagnosis, she enrolled in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) study and connected with the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Her involvement quickly grew, and she became a patient council member and a disease research ambassador for the foundation.
Signorelli’s commitment extends to raising awareness and dispelling stigmas surrounding neurodegenerative diseases. She actively uses her blog and Instagram platform, @TheParkinsonsRoad, to share her experiences and connect with other early-onset patients. Her online presence has cultivated a supportive community where individuals can feel understood and empowered.
National Recognition: The Citizen Scientist Cultivator Award
Signorelli’s dedication to research and advocacy culminated in her being honored with the Citizen Scientist Cultivator Award. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who actively participate in research trials related to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, both neurodegenerative conditions with similar characteristics. The award highlights the crucial role of patient involvement in advancing scientific understanding and treatment options.
The award acknowledges Signorelli’s invaluable contributions to Parkinson’s research through her participation in various clinical trials. By volunteering her time and data, she helps researchers gain deeper insights into the disease’s progression and potential therapeutic interventions.
Partnering with the Michael J. Fox Foundation: A Collaborative Effort
Signorelli’s work with the Michael J. Fox Foundation has been instrumental in amplifying her advocacy efforts. She appeared in an advertisement last April, advocating for the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act. This act, signed into law in July, mandates the National Institutes of Health to develop and maintain “a National Plan to prevent, diagnose, treat and cure Parkinson’s, as well as stop disease progression.”
Through her association with the foundation, Signorelli has had the opportunity to meet prominent figures in the advocacy world, including Christina Applegate, Jamie Lynn Sigler, and Michael J. Fox himself. Meeting Fox, a fellow Canadian, was a particularly meaningful experience for Signorelli, who expressed her gratitude on behalf of all patients and families affected by Parkinson’s.
@TheParkinsonsRoad: Building Community and Raising Awareness
Signorelli’s Instagram platform, @TheParkinsonsRoad, serves as a vital hub for sharing information, fostering connections, and dispelling misconceptions about Parkinson’s disease. With over 65,000 followers, her account has become a go-to resource for individuals seeking support, education, and inspiration. Signorelli uses her platform to provide updates on research advancements, share personal experiences, and promote a sense of community among those affected by the disease.
By openly discussing her challenges and triumphs, Signorelli helps to break down stigmas surrounding Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. She creates a safe and inclusive space where individuals can share their stories, ask questions, and find encouragement. @TheParkinsonsRoad exemplifies the power of social media in connecting people and driving positive change.
Embarking on a Speaking Tour: Sharing Her Story Nationwide
Signorelli’s advocacy work continues to expand as she takes on a new role as the host of the speaking tour series with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Over a two-year term, she will travel across the country, sharing her personal story and leading panel discussions for Parkinson’s disease patients and their families. The tour includes stops in Orlando, Minneapolis, Nashville, and Honolulu, among other cities.
Through her speaking engagements, Signorelli aims to empower individuals living with Parkinson’s, provide valuable information and resources, and inspire hope for the future. She emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, proactive engagement with research, and the power of community support.
A Beacon of Hope: Signorelli’s Enduring Impact
Allison Signorelli’s journey from Parkinson’s diagnosis to national advocacy award is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and determination. Her unwavering commitment to raising awareness, supporting research, and fostering community has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease.
As she embarks on her speaking tour and continues her work with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Signorelli’s voice will undoubtedly reach even wider audiences. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring action and driving progress toward a future where Parkinson’s disease is no longer a barrier to living a full and meaningful life. In Signorelli’s words, “One of the mottos of the Fox Foundation is, if not us, then who?”
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