Shakespeare's Schafer family on Parkinson's journey

Team Schafer was out in full force in September raising thousands of dollars for Parkinson’s research at the annual Walk for Parkinson’s in Upper Queen’s Park. The Stratford team also included Shakespeare’s Barb Myers, who with her partner’s team, Ron’s Racers, were able to raise $160,000 over two years. Contributed photo

By Gary West

There are many organizations throughout the area that raise money year after year to continue with research and development to find a cure for those diseases that shorten a person’s life or at least make everyday life a challenge.

Every year in September, many in the area walk to find a cure for one of those diseases, namely Parkinson’s Disease.

A Shakespeare family can speak firsthand about this debilitating disease. The Schafer family, which includes Bill and Kathy along with their daughters, Laurie Schafer, Heather Briese, Angela Schafer and their families, have been dealing with Kathy Schafer’s Parkinson’s diagnosis since 2003.

The following is her journey as told by her three daughters.

“Mom’s journey with Parkinson’s began subtly,” said Angela Schafer. “She noticed her right arm wasn’t swinging during her daily two-mile walks, a sign that something was amiss. This small change led to a life-altering diagnosis that would shape her and her family‘s lives.”

Parkinson’s Canada reports that over 100,000 Canadians live with Parkinson’s, with 30 new diagnoses every day.

The World Health organization highlights that the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease has doubled in the past 25 years. Despite extensive research, the cause of Parkinson’s remains unknown, and each patient’s experience with the disease is unique.

For Kathy Schafer and her family, the diagnosis was a daunting revelation.

“It impacted all of us as a family when we learned about Mom’s illness; we didn’t know what to expect,” said Angela Schafer.

Initially, Kathy Schafer‘s life continued with minimal changes. She and her husband celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with a European river cruise, enjoyed a family trip to Cancun and even visited New York and Yankee Stadium, and Boston’s Fenway Park with her siblings to watch the visiting Blue Jays play.

As the Parkinson’s progressed, Kathy Schafer’s lifestyle gradually changed. Vacations became less frequent and spending time with extended family grew more challenging. Everyday outings turned into significant efforts. Yet Kathy Schafer remained a Parkinson’s superstar, living at home for 20 years and actively participating in medical trials, exercise regimes and working with a naturopath alongside her physician.

A pivotal moment in her journey came in 2014 when she underwent deep brain stimulation (DPS), which significantly reduced her tremors.

“This was a life-changing experience,” Angela Schafer said, expressing gratitude to Dr. Mandar Jog and his team at London’s University Hospital for their unwavering support.

In addition to Parkinson’s, Kathy Schafer battled scoliosis, which progressed more rapidly due to her condition, necessitating back surgery in 2016. Dementia, a common symptom of advanced Parkinson’s, only affected Kathy Schafer in recent years, leading to her move to a long-term-care home in Stratford.

The Walk for Parkinson’s every year in Stratford in September brings in thousands of dollars and also raises awareness about the challenges faced by those living with Parkinson’s.

The Schafer family’s dedication and Kathy Schafer’s resilience serve as an inspiration to the community, highlighting the importance of support, family, community, research and hope in the fight against Parkinson’s Disease.

For more information on programs and support for people living with Parkinson’s Disease, visit the Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario website at PSSO.ca.