Kimberly Schlapman’s Parkinson’s Advocacy Gives Voice to Caregivers

Little Big Town’s Kimberly Schlapman is using her platform for a deeply personal cause. Her mother, Barbara, has been living with Parkinson’s Disease for twenty years. Schlapman is now a leading voice for patients and their families.

She recently partnered with AbbVie on a new advocacy campaign. The initiative aims to empower those affected by the neurodegenerative disorder.

A Family’s Two-Decade Journey With Parkinson’s

Barbara Schlapman was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2005. The family knew very little about the disease at the time. They associated it primarily with tremors.

Parkinson’s is a progressive nervous system disorder. It affects movement and often includes stiffness and balance issues. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms worsen over time.

Barbara’s condition has recently required 24-hour care. This reality prompted Schlapman to become more vocal. She wants to help other families feel less isolated.

The “Changing the Tune” Advocacy Campaign

The new campaign is called “Changing the Tune of Parkinson’s Disease.” Its goal is to encourage open dialogue between patients, caregivers, and doctors. Schlapman is the public face of this effort.

She emphasizes the importance of asking specific questions. Families should inquire about medication efficacy and daily challenges. This helps doctors tailor a more effective care plan.

Schlapman’s family regularly asks her mother for direct feedback. They want to understand her experience from the inside. This collaborative approach is central to their strategy.

A Cross-Country Move for Family Support

Schlapman recently moved her family from Nashville to South Carolina. She wanted to be closer to her parents. Her husband and two daughters made the move with her.

She credits her brother and sister as the primary, on-the-ground caregivers. Her sister acts as the “family quarterback,” managing all care schedules. Her brother handles daily tasks like cooking.

Despite her fame, Schlapman sees caregiving as a universal human experience. She describes herself as a mama, wife, and daughter first. She does what any devoted child would do for their parent.

Kimberly Schlapman’s powerful Parkinson’s advocacy shines a light on the silent struggles of caregivers. Her family’s story offers hope and practical guidance. This public discussion is vital for improving patient quality of life.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a progressive nervous system disorder. It primarily affects movement, often causing tremors and stiffness. Symptoms gradually worsen over time.

What are the early symptoms of Parkinson’s?

Early signs often include slight tremors, slowed movement, and rigid muscles. Changes in speech and writing can also occur. Many people initially experience a loss of automatic movements.

How common is Parkinson’s Disease?

Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with Parkinson’s. This number is expected to rise significantly with an aging population. It is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s.

How can caregivers best support a loved one?

Open communication is the most critical tool for effective caregiving. Regularly ask about their needs and how treatments are working. Advocate for them during medical appointments.

What is the goal of the “Changing the Tune” campaign?

The campaign aims to empower patients and caregivers to speak up. It encourages them to discuss the disease’s full impact with their doctors. The ultimate goal is to find personalized, effective care plans.

Trusted Sources

Mayo Clinic, Reuters, Associated Press