Congresswoman Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease

Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA) announced Tuesday that she had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.

“On #WorldParkinsonsDay, I’m here to share that I’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. I’m doing well, and I want to bring about as much good from this diagnosis as I can—including here in Congress,” Wexton tweeted with a video message.

“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,” Wexton said.

“A diagnosis of PD is often misunderstood, so I’d like to tell you what it actually is. PD is a movement disorder. It starts in the brain and affects people’s bodies in different ways,” she continued.

“Over the past few months, it has primarily affected my speech and how my mouth moves. You may notice I speak more quickly now. It has also affected how I walk and keep my balance,” she added.

Virginia Democratic Rep. Jennifer Wexton announces she has Parkinson's disease but is "doing well" and remains committed to serving constituents https://t.co/A0PHAMjtvl

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) April 11, 2023

POLITICO reported:

While the disease has caused impairments, the Virginia Democrat emphasized that Parkinson’s isn’t a “death sentence” and that she’s working with a doctor to address the symptoms.

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“I want to use that platform to be a voice for those struggling with Parkinson’s to help bring better resources to the search for a cure,” she said Tuesday, announcing the diagnosis on National Parkinson’s Day. Some 500,000 Americans are diagnosed with the disease, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, but the actual number is expected to be much higher.

In recent weeks, Wexton has focused on her duties in Congress while also traveling around her district, hosting events with constituents and visiting local businesses and schools. She plans to continue such outings as she works with the doctor on a suitable treatment plan.

“I hope to keep serving you for many years to come,” she said.

“The treatment process is one that involves time and commitment, so you’re going to see me have some good days and some days are not so good,” Wexton added.

“My head and my heart are 100 percent committed to serving the people of Virginia, and especially my constituents in the 10th Congressional District,” she continued.

“I’m generally a private person when it comes to personal matters, but with my Parkinson’s diagnosis I join the ranks of over 8 million people who have Parkinson’s today,” she added.

Watch the full video message:

On #WorldParkinsonsDay, I'm here to share that I've been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

I'm doing well, and I want to bring about as much good from this diagnosis as I can—including here in Congress. pic.twitter.com/bvEwzZQbqp

— Rep. Jennifer Wexton (@RepWexton) April 11, 2023