Hello,
I’m Stephen Clarence Hammoor and I was told 9 years ago, at the age of 47, that I had a neurological condition called Parkinson’s. I met the criteria, so I was told and that was that. In the past nine years, I have never met any Parkie (Parkinson ’s patient) just like me. I do not have a tremor but do have some speech issues. I work out daily and live a pretty active life. I fish, hunt, and can still run a marathon. If I didn’t stutter a bit, you probably wouldn’t know I have Parkinson’s. For the most part, I have been blessed with slow progression of the disease. Why can’t all Parkies have my type of Parkinson’s? Why am I different? Why are we all different? I know God likes variety but if we all had the same exact disease, it would be so much easier to cure. Unfortunately, the notion that there is one pill out there that will cure us is somewhat of a dream.
So, What is the CCBP to me?
Well simply put, the CCBP study will focus on the data as it relates to biomarkers and the biology of individuals affected by neurological diseases. With this information, and with a focus on the individuals, they’re searching for what best practices (therapy or medications) work for folks just like me. Great news, the CCBP is up and running. Dr. Espay (my doc) is heading up this study along with an amazing team at the Gardner UC Neuroscience building in beautiful Cincinnati, Ohio. I have signed up and have gone to my first appointment. First you get to meet Dr. Espay for some initial exams and the team takes it from there. After a blood draw and a cognitive test, you’re pretty much done. Easy Peasy!!!
So, why do I participate in the CCBP? I’m very active in the Cincinnati Parkinson’s community and at the Gardner UC Neuroscience. Dr. Espay has always encouraged me to step out and be an advocate for Parkinson’s research. I participate because I live strong with my Parkinson’s everyday and am highly motivated to be part of the solution. Please join me, it’s time to step up and volunteer for this CCBP study. Let’s fight the good fight. Together we can make a difference, one volunteer at a time.