Inspiring

I decided to retire early.  I had the money and a license to practice pharmacy, so it wasn’t risky to quit early and enjoy life while I was still in good health.  On the second day, I was eager to get back to work.  Now what?

I decided to try my hand at fundraising.  Nope, I had no experience other than writing checks.  However, I wanted to raise money to help find a cure for Parkinson’s.  Selfish?  Probably.  But, certainly, my efforts will more likely help those who follow than myself.  I’m okay with that.

The Michael J Fox Foundation is, in my opinion, the best institution to fund PD research.  They have built an amazing organization and have started seeing real results from their efforts and leadership in research.  I decided to hold my first fundraiser to benefit MJFF.

What to do?  I started boxing which helps with the symptoms of PD and is just a great workout.  Had anyone held a Team Fox boxathon?   I couldn’t find one.  Let’s be a trailblazer. 

We raised over $25,000 our first year.  Amazing!  What was more fulfilling for me though was the people and companies that turned out to help.  Donations, volunteers, friends, family, companies large and small.

However, what was most inspiring was my fellow PD patients and care partners.  The smiles on their faces were priceless.  They were boxers for the day, and they came together as a community to enjoy a fantastic day of competition, laughs, music and dance.  What a great feeling.

Team Fox fundraisers who donate more than $10,000 in one year get an invitation to their gala in New York City.  I took my mom for a long weekend in the Big Apple.  Talk about inspiring.  People from all over the country with passion for finding a cure.  Michael J Fox speaking about his journey.  He spoke about what all of us meant to him and how it contributes to funding research for finding a cure. We met people who walked, biked, ran, bowled, auctioned, etc. all to raise money.  They turned their talents and passion into bucks.  I was inspired to do more.  (I’m also very competitive so I want to be on the stage as a top ten fundraiser at some point.)

I’ve started planning for the second annual boxing fundraiser.  I hope you will join me in contributing to research for a cure.

I’d like to hear from you.  Please leave comments below.