January 15, 2024

74. How to Advocate for Parkinson's Disease as a Family Caregiver: An Interview with Dr. George Ackerman

38 minutes

Ever Wondered How Deep the Caregiver's Journey Goes?

Welcome to our latest episode, where we explore the heartfelt and resilient journey of a caregiver navigating the challenges of Parkinson's disease.

0:00:01 Introduction: Dr. George Ackerman's Mission

0:03:04 George's Personal Connection to Dementia Caregiving and Parkinson's Disease

0:05:26 The Impact of Dementia Hallucinations and Delusions

0:12:06 Challenging Symptoms and Difficulties of Caretaking

0:14:33 Finding Hope and Support in Sharing Journeys

0:20:39 Embracing Animals and Faith for Support

0:21:22 Supporting Parkinson's Foundations and Fundraising Efforts

0:23:27 Misconceptions and Stigma Surrounding Parkinson's Disease

0:25:16 Heartbreak and Frustration with Unresponsive Organizations

0:27:29 Reflecting on the Journey and Offering Advice for Others

0:29:31 Dedication and Support for Parkinson's Caregivers

0:31:31 The Conversation Podcast

The story begins with a son's devotion to his mother, who battled Parkinson's for 15 years. The final years were particularly challenging, marking a significant shift in their lives. This transition from child to caregiver reveals the deep emotional and practical struggles encountered daily.

Dr. George Ackerman is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 01/01/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.

George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause and did not know how to bring change.

With my family, we started TogetherForSharon® as a family for the purpose of keeping my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman’s, memory alive and to share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.

Today https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness.

George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.

Website https://www.togetherforsharon.com/

Email [email protected]

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-a-00871a82/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020

Twitter https://twitter.com/togetherforsha1

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/togetherforsharon/

& Threads

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIeBLOelhaLQNvgeNMzu-5g

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By Lizette Cloete, Christian Dementia Coach

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