Hundreds of people listened as Rasheda discussed her personal struggle at the 4th Annual Parkinson's Disease Symposium in Maumee on Saturday. Her father, an Olympic gold medal boxer and three-time World Heavy Weight Title champion was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease more than 25 years ago.
"My dad still did the same things. He took us out for ice cream. We went out to eat. We did the same things, but he had a little tremor, stiffness in movement and a very light voice." Over time, his symptoms got worse.
Bob O'Connell struggles to even stand up. He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease 25 years ago as well, and he finds comfort in learning about the legend. He's supported by his daughter-in-law Debra. She helps feed, dress and groom him.
"This isn't the way I remember him," Debra O'Connell says. "I remember him in the days when he coached ball at Ottawa Hills He was very active."
With the help of advocates like Rasheda, those affected by the brain disorder hope for a cure. Rasheda wrote the book "I'll Hold Your Hand So You Won't Fall: A Child's Guide to Parkinson's Disease."
