Hello, my name is Rayna, and I am 51 years old. Two years ago, I received a diagnosis that forever changed my life—Parkinson’s disease. Since then, my world has shifted in ways I could never have anticipated.

Living with Parkinson’s has brought challenges both big and small. Some days, it’s the tremors or stiffness that make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Other days, it’s the fatigue or the unpredictability of my body that reminds me that life is different now. Beyond the physical symptoms, I’ve also faced the emotional weight—grappling with frustration, uncertainty, and learning how to adjust to a “new normal” while still trying to hold onto the pieces of myself I love most.

But through these challenges, I’ve discovered something else too: resilience. Each obstacle has taught me patience, strength, and the importance of community. I know there are others walking this same path, and I want to connect with you—to share stories, encouragement, and maybe even laughter along the way.

Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, and options are limited.

Recently, I met a man named Bart Vossen who shared with me something that gave me hope: a developing treatment called FGF-1 (Fibroblast Growth Factor-1). It’s currently being studied for its ability to improve blood flow in the brain, protect dopamine-producing neurons, and possibly even repair some of the damage Parkinson’s causes. It isn’t a cure, but it could be a major step forward.

Here’s the hard part: the trial is being done in the British Virgin Islands, and the cost to participate is overwhelming. To take part in the 6-day trial, it will cost me $50,000. That covers the treatment itself, medical oversight, and related expenses.

This is why I started this GoFundMe page. I don’t take asking for help lightly, but this trial could give me a real chance at better days ahead. Every donation—large or small—brings me closer to that chance. Even if you cannot give financially, sharing this page or offering your support means the world to me.

I believe in fighting Parkinson’s with everything I can, and with your help, I have hope that I can take this next step.

Thank you for walking with me on this journey.

We may not have chosen this journey, but together, we can support one another and prove that Parkinson’s doesn’t define us—it simply reshapes the way we live, and the way we fight forward.

The funds will be used to secure my place in the medical trial. However, I will still need additional support for travel, lodging, and related expenses beyond the $50,000 goal. Participating in this trial has the potential to completely change my life — and possibly lead to a breakthrough with historical significance.