(Photo : Mark Wilson/Getty Images)
In recent months, Parkinson's disease has mostly affected Virginia Rep. Jennifer Wexton's speech and movement.
On Tuesday, Virginia Democratic Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton revealed that doctors had diagnosed her with Parkinson's disease.
In a video uploaded on Twitter, the 54-year-old legislator said, "If there's one thing that Democrats and Republicans can agree on, it's that Parkinson's disease sucks."
Rep. Jennifer Wexton noted that in recent months, Parkinson's disease has mostly impacted her voice and the movement of her lips, making her talk faster. It has also affected her balance and walking, according to Politico.
The Virginia Democrat acknowledged that Parkinson's had limited her ability to perform some things. Still, she insisted that the condition isn't a "death sentence" and that she and her doctor are trying to manage her symptoms.
Jennifer Wexton has indicated that she is "working" with her doctor on a treatment plan that addresses her symptoms. The lawmaker also said she has a "positive attitude" and the overwhelming support of her family, friends, and loved ones.
On #WorldParkinsonsDay, I'm here to share that I've been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.
— Rep. Jennifer Wexton (@RepWexton) April 11, 2023
I'm doing well, and I want to bring about as much good from this diagnosis as I can—including here in Congress. pic.twitter.com/bvEwzZQbqp
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Jennifer Wexton Vows To Continue Serving The Public
The Virginia politician intends to use her platform to raise awareness and fight for a cure and has made it clear that she won't leave office.
Jennifer Wexton said that she would have good and bad days due to the time and effort required for her Parkinson's disease therapy, according to CNN. However, she emphasized her commitment to serving the people of Virginia and the 10th Congressional District, in particular, despite her health condition.
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke estimates that half a million Americans live with Parkinson's disease; however, many cases go unrecognized, prompting some specialists to think the true prevalence is far greater, The Hill reported.
Parkinson's disease is the second-most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in the US after Alzheimer's.
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