Rebecca King-Crews, the wife of actor Terry Crews, has bravely disclosed her ongoing struggle with Parkinson’s disease, a condition she has faced since 2015. During a recent appearance on the Today show, she shared insights into her diagnosis and the promising non-invasive surgical procedure she has undergone to alleviate her symptoms, a disorder that primarily disrupts motor functions due to central nervous system damage.
A Hidden Struggle for Nearly a Decade
At 60, King-Crews opened up about her journey with Parkinson’s, which began with subtle signs around 2012. She recounted the initial onset of numbness in her left foot while exercising, a precursor to more alarming symptoms. “About 2012, I just had some light numbness in my left foot. Then my trainer noticed that my arm does not swing when I walk,” she reflected. The situation escalated when she awoke one morning to find her hand shaking, a clear indication of a tremor that she had recognised from her grandmother’s experience.
Despite her symptoms, King-Crews faced a challenging path to diagnosis, initially being misattributed to anxiety. “No disrespect to him, but I asked for referrals and I got them,” she stated during her interview, revealing that it took three years before she received a formal diagnosis in 2015.
Finding Strength Amidst Adversity
Throughout her diagnosis journey, King-Crews remained dedicated to her creative pursuits, working on a book, an album, and a clothing line. “Just keep going. And that’s what I’m going to keep doing,” she affirmed, emphasising her belief that a diagnosis should not dictate one’s life. “I believe that you don’t lay down and die because you got a diagnosis.”
Parkinson’s disease affects millions worldwide, causing symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and slowed movement. With no cure currently available, managing the condition often requires a comprehensive approach, including medication and physical therapy.
A New Frontier in Treatment
King-Crews expressed optimism following her recent bilateral focused ultrasound treatment, which utilises ultrasound waves to target specific brain areas associated with movement. “I feel good. I’m able to write my name and my dates, and I’m able to write with my right hand for the first time in probably three years,” she shared, noting significant improvements in her symptoms.
As she navigates her recovery—estimated to take around three months—she looks forward to a second procedure aimed at addressing remaining issues like numbness and tremors on her left side. “I’m still figuring it out… You’re improved on one side and not on the other, so it can make you feel a little more aware of the other,” she explained, reflecting on the complexities of her condition.
Raising Awareness and Hope
Having kept her diagnosis private for many years, King-Crews now aims to use her platform to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease and the potential of innovative treatments. “I don’t believe in telling my story just so you can know my story and feel sorry for me,” she asserted. “I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine.”
Her husband, Terry Crews, also expressed his desire for these advancements to benefit others suffering from the disease. “To watch her go through what she’s gone through… has been very, very hard,” he said, choked with emotion. “I don’t know what to say. I’m choked up just thinking about it.”
According to Parkinson Canada, over 120,000 individuals in Canada are currently living with Parkinson’s disease. Although there is no cure, various therapies can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected.
Why it Matters
King-Crews’ candid revelation not only sheds light on the challenges faced by those with Parkinson’s disease but also underscores the importance of innovative treatments in managing this debilitating condition. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to seek out resources and support while advocating for greater awareness and research into effective therapies. By sharing her journey, King-Crews contributes to a broader conversation about resilience, mental health, and the relentless pursuit of advancements in medical science, inspiring countless individuals facing similar battles.
