Tamra Bailey
$6,700.00 Donated!
Tamra Bailey
I’d been through a number of challenges in my life, but navigating a life with Parkinson’s and doing it solo wasn’t on the playlist. I also didn’t plan on the additional isolation that would accompany the pandemic beginning one year after my husband’s passing.
Early in my diagnosis with PD (2016), I found hope in the promise of stem cell research that was happening in my own backyard. So fortunate that my medical team at Scripps was already at the forefront of this quest for a cure.
I struggled at first. Finding the right kind of support group was a challenge. They were modeled on having a “Care-Partner” and I was younger than most of the other PwPs in attendance, and female. Thankfully, Sherrie Gould suggested I accompany her hikers that were preparing to trek the Camino on their training hikes. I couldn’t go to Spain at that time, but I’d found my people. (Groups for “solos” and women would spring up later.)
I was so excited when I heard that Japan was the next destination. And even more elated when I got the call to participate in the same clinical trial that gave me that essential glimmer of hope in the very beginning. Anyone who knows me, also knows I research everything! I’m more careful than brave. When deciding on whether or not to join this trek, I found my answer in Eleanor Roosevelt’s words…
‘ You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”
I pay for all of my own expenses on this trip, but have agreed to raise a minimum $2,000 for the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego to provide services to the San Diego Parkinson’s community and to the Scripps Foundation to help fund an MRI suite at Scripps clinic to facilitate future stem cell replacement surgeries.
Matthew Ronning
Tamra is a friend and an inspiration! She pushes herself physically and maintains such a positive attitude, I feel lucky to know her and to contribute to her fund. Best regards Tamra, and please don’t … Read more
Tamra is a friend and an inspiration! She pushes herself physically and maintains such a positive attitude, I feel lucky to know her and to contribute to her fund. Best regards Tamra, and please don’t forget to try the noodles and gyoza while in Japan! Your friend, Matt. PS. Sorry for late donation, I kept forgetting to send it to you …
William Dube
We love you Tam! Yes, you are an amazing researcher, but in our minds you’re also brave and courageous and thoughtful, inspirational and incredible! Go with the flow and let … Read more
We love you Tam! Yes, you are an amazing researcher, but in our minds you’re also brave and courageous and thoughtful, inspirational and incredible! Go with the flow and let this Asian adventure be what it will be. XO
Dan and Denise Lamborn
John Crawford
John Don Carlos
Wonderful that you are able to do this pilgrimage after providing such helpful support for the Camino.
Chuck Cotten
Leigh Johnson
Go Tamra and thank you for doing this!
Dianna Feeley
Your strength is admirable! You’re always Top Dog to me 😉
Richard Feld
We all look forward to hearing about your travels and successful journey.
Roman de Salvo
Anonymous
Janny Mulholland
My personal trainer and friend, Janine, has spoken so highly of you and I admire your ambition. A long time dear friend of my family has Parkinson's and she is a trouper. Good … Read more
My personal trainer and friend, Janine, has spoken so highly of you and I admire your ambition. A long time dear friend of my family has Parkinson's and she is a trouper. Good luck with your walk and fundraising. Janny
