Tidewater Solution Group
Cares
My family has grappled with numerous hurdles, but none as poignant as my brother's Young Onset Parkinson's Disease. Tidewater Solutions Group's Cares division aims to aid affected families by raising funds for research and providing support, collaborating with local organizations to help provide assistance to individuals and families coping with the everyday struggles of this disease.
YOPD- What is it?
Young Onset Parkinson's Disease (YOPD) is a subtype of Parkinson's disease (PD) affecting individuals under the age of 50. While the exact cause remains uncertain, both genetic predisposition and environmental factors likely contribute. Symptoms such as tremors, muscle rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) are characteristic, but they may initially be misdiagnosed due to the patient's age. YOPD poses unique challenges compared to late-onset PD, impacting individuals during their most productive years, affecting career, family, and social life. The diagnosis may be particularly distressing for younger patients, who may struggle to adapt to the chronic nature of the disease and its potential impact on long-term plans. Treatment options for YOPD include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Research and support efforts specific to YOPD are vital to addressing the distinct needs of younger patients and improving outcomes in this population.
Our Why
For over a decade, my brother, Ryan Dunahue, sought a diagnosis, consulting specialists throughout the East Coast. In 2023, he was finally diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease after numerous rounds of tests. Despite being in his 40s with a young family, Parkinson’s isn't exclusive to the elderly. And while Ryan battles the various symptoms of his Parkinson's, his focus still remains on what is most important- his faith and his family. With a loving wife and two precocious young girls, he looks forward to the many years ahead, no matter how much of a fight it may be.
In tandem with our family, Tidewater Solutions Group is dedicated to aiding organizations combatting Parkinson's Disease. Our mission encompasses finding a cure, advancing treatments, and providing holistic support. Collaborating with the Parkinson’s Foundation, the Michael J Fox Foundation, and the Neuro Challenge, we aim to offer compassionate care to affected individuals and families.
We wholeheartedly support the pursuit of a cure and stand with our loved ones and all caregivers in their quest for peace amidst constant change.
Always remember to be positive. Be thoughtful. Be clear during times of confusion. Be mindful. Always strive to be grateful. Be supportive. Be strong during moments of weakness. Be hopeful.
Recent Activities
On April 27, 2024, Tidewater Solutions Group, alongside friends and family, joined the Parkinson's Foundation's Moving Day event in Tampa, FL. Our family team raised over $2500 to support both research and support for those with Parkinson's Disease and collectively all teams raised over $130,000 exceeding their goal by 13%.
Though the event has concluded, the fight still wages on so we will continue to support efforts to fight PD and ways to support individuals and their families as they live with this unyielding disease. To learn more about ways to support PD research visit parkinson.org or michaeljfox.org.