Raising awareness for Parkinson's

I've started this GoFundMe page, hoping I can find financial support to attend and compete in the 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games in San Antonio, Texas. It has been a dream of mine to compete at the Games - which is the highest level of competition within CrossFit - since I began my CrossFit journey.

This year my dream has begun to come true after placing 1st in the Open then 3rd in the Semi Finals, punching my ticket to the Games. I’m hoping with your financial support my dream will continue on its path to becoming a reality. By attending the Games, I aim to raise awareness that based on my experience, exercise may be able to aid, slow or even reverse some of the effects of Parkinson's. My Parkinson’s symptoms prevent me from working, but CrossFit helps me build strength for everyday tasks that most people take for granted. All donations will go towards attending the Games with a coach and completing a documentary in the hope I can inspire other people with Parkinson's and improve their quality of life.

Here's my story so far... I was always an active person and really into sports. At age 19, I was dancing on the dance floor of a club, and my big toe curled up and would not relax - however hard I tried. Unknown to me then, this was one of my first symptoms and the start of a long road to diagnosis.

Finally, after sixteen years, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s dystonia. After spending all of my 20s and early 30’s wheelchair bound, I could move a bit once the medication started working. Even though it is sometimes a strange way to move it was moving! I was determined to live the active life I had always wanted. I have since found that exercise is a massive part of keeping me mobile and functioning and helping my drugs work.

My journey of exercise with Parkinson’s began! I started with just walking, slowly increasing to swimming, cycling, and running. I went on to take part in three triathlons.

THEN I found CrossFit, which has turned into my passion! I love it!! I have been doing CrossFit for two years. I have competed in Barcelona, Marbella, and have even podiumed at Wodapalooza, coming 2nd!

I would love to keep competing so I can spread the important message that life doesn’t have to end when you get diagnosed with Parkinson's and keep inspiring people to believe that anything is possible.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and considering supporting me on my journey and fulfilling my mission. Any support you can offer, small or large, will be a huge help.  Keep up to date with my journey by following me on Instagram @spazzyjules