Rosario

Rosario’s journey with Parkinson’s disease began with fruit peels on the floor of her home. Rosario’s husband, Carlos, was having difficulty peeling fruit. While the family joked about these events at first the atmosphere at home soon grew serious when a year later, in 1988, Carlos stopped swinging his arms while walking. Following the death of a cousin who had a brain tumor, Carlos and Rosario feared his new symptoms might also be the result of a brain tumor. They agreed it was best for him to seek the help of their family doctor. After a referral to a neurologist, Rosario learned her husband had Parkinson’s—he was only 38. 

After being on treatment for some time, Carlos’ symptoms returned. Concerned, the family began working with their neurologist to look into different treatment options. It was a difficult decision, but the family felt that Deep Brain Stimulation, or DBS, surgery would be the best option. Following the surgery, Rosario noticed marked improvement in her husband’s symptoms which had included tremor and severe muscle cramps. A year after his surgery, Rosario was afraid Carlos would be unable to walk their daughter down the aisle on their wedding day. However, she was excited to see him do so with a smile on his face.  Rosario is grateful for her husband’s successful treatment.

Today, Rosario is the President of her local Parkinson’s disease Association chapter and relishes in the time she continues to spend with her husband, whether it’s traveling or just enjoying the simple things in life.