Jennifer Wexton announces Parkinson’s diagnosis, says she is ‘doing well’
Jack Birle
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Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) announced Tuesday that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
The Virginia Democrat made the announcement in a video posted on Twitter to commemorate World Parkinson’s Day, saying she has learned “firsthand” how much Parkinson’s Disease “sucks.”
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“If there’s one thing Democrats and Republicans can agree on it’s that Parkinson’s disease sucks. Today on World Parkinson’s Day, I’m here to tell you that I have come to learn this firsthand and that’s because I’ve learned that I, too, have Parkinson’s or what some people call PD for short,” Wexton said.
“Before I say anything else, let me share this. I’m doing well. I’ve got a positive attitude and I’ve got the strong support of so many family, friends, and loved ones,” she added.
Wexton detailed how the movement disorder has affected her speech patterns, noting that she speaks faster now, and has affected her walking along with how she keeps her balance.
“What Parkinson’s is not is an untreatable disease, cognitive impairment, or a death sentence. So please, you’re welcome to empathize, but don’t feel sorry for me,” Wexton said.
She shared that she is working with her doctor on treatment and is still working as she normally would, adding she hopes to keep serving her constituents “for many years to come.”
“I’m not going to let Parkinson’s stop me from being me,” Wexton said.
The Virginia congresswoman also acknowledged that while she is receiving treatment for the disease, there will be good days and “days that are not so good,” but vowed to be a “fighter” like other prominent individuals who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, including actor Michael J. Fox, former Attorney General Janet Reno, and boxer Muhammad Ali.
“I want to use my platform to be a voice for those struggling with Parkinson’s to help bring greater resources to the search for a cure. I chose to come forward on World Parkinson’s Day, because I want to bring about as much good from this diagnosis as I can. And I look forward to doing just that in Congress. Thank you all, and I look forward to seeing you soon. Take care,” Wexton said.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.