Donna Krenicki
Donna Krenicki believes in momentum. Whether she’s hiking, golfing or spending the day with her young grandchildren (five under the age of 5), movement has always been central to her life. It’s how she maintains strength, focus and optimism.
So when Parkinson’s entered her world — she was diagnosed 15 years ago at age 49 — she brought that same mindset to the challenge: Focus on the momentum.
When it comes to giving back, I feel like it’s my duty as a citizen of the world, because when it comes to ending Parkinson’s, we’re all in this together.
She did her research, and The Michael J. Fox Foundation had the action-oriented perspective she was looking for. Our mission to accelerate better treatments and work toward a cure matches the resolve she and her husband, John, have in ending the disease. “The science is what gives me hope for the future,” said Donna, 65, who also serves on the MJFF Patient Council. “And I liked that the Foundation is working to put itself out of business.”
Donna’s commitment to helping bring an end to Parkinson’s extends to participating in the Parkinson’s Precision Medicine Initiative (PPMI). Being part of the largest natural history study into Parkinson’s is an important investment in the well-being of future generations.
“There’s no evidence that my Parkinson’s is genetic, but I grew up near a farm, and I think that contributed,” said Donna, who now lives in Longboat Key, Florida. “Whatever I can do to help others avoid this disease is worth the effort.”
Donna understands that no single action solves Parkinson’s. But collective momentum — thousands of supporters moving in the same direction — creates real force. “When it comes to giving back, I feel like it’s my duty as a citizen of the world,” Donna said. “Because when it comes to ending Parkinson’s, we’re all in this together.”
If you’ve been recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you can play a critical role in our landmark study. Call 877-525-PPMI or email joinppmi@michaeljfox.org to get started. PPMI is open to anyone age 18 and up in the U.S.
