Personal Impact of Parkinson's Disease

I seek to raise funds for a dear friend to many, Joseph Comizio.  The photo attached, captures a point in time where Joe readily displayed his enthusiasm and energy.  This was the same strength and energy I recognized since meeting him at Fordham University decades earlier.

Joe was a successful commodities trader before the horrific events of 9/11.  Like many others, his life would be altered in many ways since then.  Mental trauma, employment adaptations and a daily dose of stress began to consume him.  Joe managed to navigate his way toward personal goals by seeking peace through his family and newfound passion for owning a small eatery to serve a vibrant community.

Joe eventually found solace with his wife, son Joe Jr. and three daughters.  Over time, he learned the art of preparing authentic Italian specialties and opened the quaint Trattoria San Giorgio located in Millbrook, New York.  Since opening a few years ago, Joe was able to cut through the terrain and build a favorable business.  

2015 marked a dramatic time of change for Joe and his family.  Joe's physical and mental state began to weaken. Over the past few years, his inability to express himself firmly coupled with his diminished mobility raised concern for many.  Most thought the long hours he was putting into his business was the primary cause of his fragile state, but slowly additional symptoms began to manifest.  Frequent falls, compromised gait, muscle weakness, and a regressed demeanor prompted Joe to seek medical attention. 

Multiple visits for over a year to physcians, including primary care, infectious disease, and neurologists, coupled with numerous tests could not provide a definitive diagnosis.  Finally, in early 2018, Joe received the confirmation he was not looking for. Parkinson's disease was the root cause of his weakened physical state. 

Throughout his exploration to determine his illness, Joe was uninsured. He eventually exhausted all financial means for his ongoing medical care. Since his diagnosis, Joe has closed his business and seeks State assistance for medical care for him and his family.  Recently, Joe and his family had to transition to Connecticut and move into tight confines with his mother.  Clearly, the hardship of his move has presented some challenges for Joe and everyone involved.  His 13-year-old son is trying to adapt to a new environment and school.  His wife eagerly seeks steady employment, and Joe is trying to maintain a positive outlook for managing a debilitating and progressive disease.  

Joe has, and will continue to incur numerous and costly expenses related to providing a home for his family and required medical attention.  Ongoing doctor visits, medical and lab tests, as well exorbitant pharmaceutical treatment expenses have created a deep financial void for Joe and his family.

Yesterday, I saw Joe and we had a good chat.  He is trying to maintain a positive attitude regarding his current state, and he is "hanging on like a loose button."  His diminished physical state is obvious.   He takes some time to generate his initial steps, and it's hard for him to walk independently.  

Unfortunately, Joe is well aware of his weakened and fragile state.  He is consumed with anxiety and fear of the unknown.  He reads medical literature frequently in an attempt to learn the essence of his Parkinson's disease.  There is much research underway to curb and potentially eradicate this insidious disease, yet until there is a viable treatment option, Joe and millions of others will have to absorb the full load of maintaining an altered quality of life.

On behalf of Joseph Comizio, I am requesting your generous financial and spiritual support to assist him in building strength in every way.  Joe will continue to realize medical and living expenses, and any donation to help him at this time is more than appreciated.