I’ ve seen how meaningful it is to speak openly about that experience. Sharing my story helps others understand why this work matters.
TOGETHER: CATALYZED COMMUNITIES
THE MICHAEL J. FOX FOUNDATION 2025 YEAR IN REVIEW
Inside the Patient Council A New Member Reflects
The Patient Council was established in 2009 to gather Q & A insights from people living with Parkinson’ s and the
broader PD community. During the 2025 annual meeting, the Council welcomed six new members— including Yvonne Jackson, 76, of Rancho Mirage, California. Here, Yvonne reflects on joining the Patient Council and what drives her advocacy.
I’ ve seen how meaningful it is to speak openly about that experience. Sharing my story helps others understand why this work matters.
Yvonne Jackson
Why did you join the MJFF Patient Council?
When my husband, Fred— who also had Parkinson’ s— passed away last year, I thought deeply about how I wanted to spend my time moving forward. After a career in corporate America, including serving on public company boards, I decided to devote my time, talent— and what I like to call my treasure— to Parkinson’ s.
During the Patient Council meeting, I was impressed by the scope of the Foundation’ s work— not just by how much money has been raised, but by how quickly those funds are put to use. It also made me reflect on how I can do more. I’ m part of a Parkinson’ s community in California and want to share what I’ ve learned— to raise awareness, inspire support and connect more people to this work. I’ m even considering taking on my own endurance challenge to raise funds. I was very inspired by my fellow Council members: Pat Morrissey, who rowed across the Pacific Ocean, and Jimmy Choi, who competes on American Ninja Warrior!
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