My PD Story

By: Kristi Kelly

Not long ago, Phyllis Rhodes struggled with something many people take for granted — simply getting in and out of the shower. Today, she is traveling the world.

The Madison, AL, resident has visited destinations like New Zealand and Ireland in recent years, exploring places she once feared Parkinson’s disease might prevent her from seeing. Her next adventure is already on the calendar: a two-week trip to Alaska with her husband, son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren. Just a few years ago, that kind of travel would have felt impossible.

Originally from Massachusetts, Phyllis and her husband spent years moving for his government career before settling in North Alabama more than three decades ago. Along the way, she balanced work with raising their children and volunteering with youth soccer programs. She even helped organize international soccer trips to Germany for young athletes. 

Her health journey began to shift gradually. Tremors appeared first, along with bouts of vertigo and difficulty holding objects. In 2021, a severe vertigo episode after surgery led her physician to refer her to a neurologist. After several months of testing and brain scans, she received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in May 2022.

At first, the symptoms progressed quickly. Tremors continued, falls followed —– including one that ended with a fractured elbow. Mobility became more difficult, and everyday tasks started to feel overwhelming.

But once she understood what she was facing, Phyllis made a decision.

“Once I found out, I came to the conclusion I needed to learn to deal with it,” she said.

That determination led her to the Huntsville Hospital Parkinson’s Care Clinic, where she began working with a specialized care team focused on helping patients maintain strength, mobility and independence. 

“If it wasn’t for them, I don’t even know where I would be today,” Phyllis said. “They have helped me so much with therapy and occupational therapy. The program is fabulous. I have benefited so much from all of that.”

Today, her schedule is filled with intentional programs that keep her active and engaged. She participates in exercise classes four days each week, including “Move and Groove,” step and strength training classes and Tai Chi. On Fridays, she joins a music program using harmonicas and bells that helps strengthen breathing and voice.

Each program serves a different purpose, but together they have made a remarkable difference. Through consistent therapy, exercise and medication, her strength and mobility have improved dramatically.

Everyday activities that used to feel impossible are now no problem for Phyllis. She has also regained confidence. Before starting the programs, she often felt hesitant to leave the house.

Today, that uncertainty has been replaced with excitement about where she might go next. 

Programs like those offered through the Huntsville Hospital Parkinson’s Care Clinic are made possible in part through funding from the Parkinson's Foundation Community Grants program. 

Today, Phyllis continues to attend classes, stay active and spend time with her family. She continues to travel.

For someone who once struggled simply to step out of the shower, each new destination is more than a vacation. It is a powerful reminder of what the right care, community and support can make possible.

Through the care and encouragement she found at the Huntsville Hospital Parkinson’s Care Clinic, Phyllis regained strength, confidence and independence. And with renewed freedom, she’s doing exactly what she hoped she could do: living fully, staying active and continuing to explore the world with the people she loves.

Explore Parkinson’s Foundation community grant programs, including exercise classes and wellness events, near you. You can also find a list of local offerings through your nearest chapter.