IRONJOHN - a fundraiser to support John Anderson (AKA Papa) as he continues his journey living with Parkinson's Disease

IRONMAN California - October 19th, 2025 - Sacramento, CA

2.4 mile swim

112 mile bike

26.2 mile run

"Are you a leader or a follower?" These are the words my Papa asked me when I was a little girl. They stuck with me, shaping how I dream, act, and take on challenges I once thought impossible. Today, as my Papa faces Parkinson's with courage and grit, I'm channeling those same lessons to take on my biggest challenge yet- a full IRONMAN- in his honor.

Meet IRONJOHN,

The man who I was lucky enough to grow up calling "Papa." The ultimate family man with a literal heart of gold. His work ethic is unmatched, running Anderson Landscaping and performing manual labor 6 days a week in all conditions -heat, rain, cold, long hours-then coming home at night and on weekends to do paperwork. Despite the grind, he always finds time to be present with family and grandkids, never complaining, and always providing.

Our family's world was shook 10 years ago when Papa was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease at age 55. It was a devastating diagnosis at such a young age and we were faced with such anger, fear, and uncertainty- "Why Papa? Why the man who gives everything and asks for nothing?"

I watched my mom, Luce, pour her heart into researching, learning, and trying anything possible to help him. Her dedication is a huge reason why he has done so well since the diagnosis. A decade later, despite a progressive neurodegenerative disease, Papa continues to work six days a week. He is resilience personified- truly made of iron.

When taking on something as daunting as a full IRONMAN, I was told it is important to find your "Why," your inspiration that you'll need to tap into when your mind and body are both screaming at you to quit. That's when I tap into IRONJOHN. When I race and the negative mindset starts creeping in, I always come back to Papa, the man who has always been the leader with unwavering spirit and determination. When my legs want to stop and I don't think I can take another step, I think of Papa, who despite a movement disorder for a decade, continues to push through the struggle, the frustration, and limitations. If he can do it, so can I. Ever since tapping into IronJohn, I feel limitless. In combination with my husband Paul's phenomenal support, love, and coaching their love in my heart always is the fuel to the finish line. I know the road to the finish won't be easy - the training, the early mornings, the post shift long runs, injuries and the sore muscles - but every step, every mile, and every stroke will be fueled by my Papa's unwavering strength.

This one's for Papa, for IronJohn. As he continues on his journey with this tough diagnosis, I'd like to support him in any way that he requires as time goes on. Thank you for supporting my dad, my family, and his fight against Parkinson's.