Rep. Jennifer Wexton Reveals Parkinson's Disease Diagnosis

LEESBURG, VA — U.S. Rep. Jennifer Wexton, a Democrat who represents Virginia's 10th congressional district, revealed Tuesday that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Wexton's announcement came on World Parkinson’s Disease Day.

In a video posted to Twitter, Wexton shared her diagnosis in order to use her platform "to be a voice for those struggling with Parkinson’s."

"I chose to come forward today, on World Parkinson’s Day, because I want to bring about as much good from this diagnosis as I can, and I look forward to doing just that here in Congress," Wexton said in the video.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves, according to the Mayo Clinic. Signs and symptoms include tremors, slow movements, rigid muscles, impaired posture and balance, loss of automatic movements, and speech changes.

There is no cure for Parkinson's, though symptoms can be managed with medications or surgery.

Wexton, who lives in Leesburg, said she's keeping a positive attitude and "doing well."

"Over the past few months, it has primarily affected my speech and how my mouth moves. You may notice I speak more quickly now. It also has affected how I walk and keep my balance," Wexton said. "What Parkinson’s is not is an untreatable disease, a cognitive impairment, or a death sentence. So please! You are welcome to empathize, but don’t feel sorry for me. I’m working with my doctor on a treatment plan that addresses my symptoms."

Fairfax County Democratic Committee Chair Bryan Graham said the party supports Wexton as she navigates the disease.

"Her dedication to her constituents and tireless efforts to improve the lives of our community will no doubt be unchanged," Graham said in a statement. "As Democrats, we are committed to better access to healthcare, advancing scientific research, and supporting policies that improve the lives of people with diseases like Parkinson’s. We stand with Congresswoman Wexton and the Parkinson’s community today, echoing the need for greater understanding, better treatments, and a cure for this devastating disease.”

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Wexton serves on the House Appropriations Committee and the House Budget Committee. She is also the founder of the Congressional Task Force on Digital Citizenship and the Congressional Agritourism Caucus. She was elected to Congress in 2018.