Raises Parkinson's Disease Awareness: Palatine Patch Community Leader

PALATINE, IL — Without community leaders, Palatine wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Beth Richman, a Palatine reader who nominated Bob Bansfield.

How do you know this community leader?

He is a volunteer with and board member of the Parkinson's Foundation.

What does this community leader do?

Bob is committed to raising awareness of Parkinson's disease, fundraising for critical programs that benefit people living with Parkinson's and their families, and helping advance research. He appreciates that he has benefited from medical research and pays it forward by contributing to current scientific studies. In fact, he participated in a drug trial, and the medication that was being tested is now awaiting FDA approval. And recently, Bob joined a study where researchers track and analyze his fitness habits and data. Bob further pays it forward as vice president on the Parkinson’s Foundation Midwest Chapter’s board. Lastly, Bob volunteers at the Moving Day Milwaukee walk and participates with friends and family in Moving Day Chicago at Soldier Field.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Bob was diagnosed with Parkinson's in the fall of 2018, shortly before his 59th birthday. Once he accepted the diagnosis, he worked with his doctor to create a plan that would slow the disease progression. And he set out to learn about Parkinson’s and how he could use his passion for running to improve his health. Working out six days a week at the time, Bob crossed the finish line of his seventh Chicago Marathon on his 60th birthday in 2019.

While he’s hung up his running shoes, today Bob still remains very active, lifting weights, walking, cycling and stretching most days of the week. He maintains a positive attitude and does not allow the disease to define him. His commitment to exercise has paid off; the disease has progressed slowly. Fortunately, Bob has not developed other PD symptoms in the five years since his diagnosis.

He is an inspiration to friends, family and others living with PD.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

Bob demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity and never wavers in his commitment to improving himself and the Parkinson's community.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.