Community, Movement and Advocacy Help Local Woman Face Parkinson's Diagnosis

After seven years of being dismissed by doctors and told her symptoms were “nothing to worry about,” Leslie Goodnetter of Pewaukee is sharing her long road to a Parkinson’s diagnosis with the goal of raising awareness and inspiring others in the Milwaukee area.

In 2022, at age 58, Leslie was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). What began as sleep issues and shoulder pain was repeatedly written off by physicians who often pointed to menopause. As Leslie experienced additional symptoms, including small handwriting and a soft voice, she became more concerned and determined to get answers.

While watching the Today show, Leslie heard a guest discuss her PD journey. This woman had shoulder pain, too, which got Leslie thinking – and motivated her to see another neurologist.

The specialist considered Leslie’s symptoms and analyzed her gait. He suspected she might have Parkinson’s disease and ordered a daTscan, which helps differentiate between essential tremor and Parkinson's. It confirmed his suspicion, and Leslie got answers.

Now, Leslie is speaking out about the emotional toll of not being believed, the growing number of younger people diagnosed with PD, and how movement and community help support her good quality of life. With medication and daily exercise, such as Rock Steady Boxing classes, strength training, and walking, she’s managing her symptoms and finding strength alongside others living with the disease.

On May 16, Leslie and her friends and family will participate in the 10^th annual Moving Day Milwaukee, a walk to benefit the Parkinson’s Foundation. Held in Wauwatosa’s Hart Park, the event brings together hundreds of people to honor loved ones, raise funds, and celebrate the importance of movement for people living with Parkinson’s.

Three years ago, when Leslie’s friend suggested they participate in Moving Day, she was hesitant, as she had not shared her diagnosis with many people. She decided to use the event as an opportunity to inform her network about her health, and together, they walked as “Team G.A.L. (Girls Affirming Leslie).” Today, the team of nearly 40 people is leading the event’s fundraising efforts with more than $10,000 raised.

To learn more about Parkinson's disease, visit www.parkinson.org, and to register for or donate to Moving Day Milwaukee, visit www.movingdaymilwaukee.org.