Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, has bravely disclosed her long-standing struggle with Parkinson’s disease, a condition she has quietly managed since 2015. During a recent appearance on the *Today* show, the couple discussed her diagnosis and the promising results of a newly approved non-invasive surgical procedure aimed at alleviating some of her symptoms.
A Decade of Struggles
At the age of 60, King-Crews recounted her first symptoms dating back to 2012, when she experienced a slight numbness in her left foot during workouts. “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 recalled. It wasn’t long before her condition progressed, with the emergence of a tremor that she recognised from her grandmother’s struggles with the same affliction.
Initially, King-Crews faced hurdles in receiving a diagnosis. Despite her persistent symptoms, her doctor attributed her condition to anxiety and a neurologist remained uncertain. “No disrespect to him, but I asked for referrals and I got them. It took three years to diagnose me,” she explained to Craig Melvin on *Today*. During this time, she continued to work on various creative projects, demonstrating resilience and determination. “Just keep going. And that’s what I’m going to keep doing,” she affirmed. “I believe that you don’t lay down and die because you got a diagnosis.”
The Journey to Diagnosis and Treatment
After years of uncertainty, King-Crews received her official Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2015. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor functions, leading to symptoms such as tremors, slow movement, and muscle stiffness. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure.
Recently, King-Crews underwent a non-invasive procedure known as bilateral focused ultrasound, which employs targeted ultrasound waves to specific areas of the brain. The treatment, guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is designed to mitigate the movement-related symptoms of Parkinson’s. Following the procedure, she expressed optimism about her recovery, stating, “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.”
Looking Ahead: Future Procedures and Awareness
King-Crews is scheduled for a second treatment in September to further address the numbness and tremors affecting her left side. She noted the complexity of her situation, reflecting on the uneven progress of her recovery: “So, you’re improved on one side and not on the other, so it can make you feel a little more aware of the other.”
Now that she has chosen to share her journey publicly, King-Crews hopes to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease and the potential of new medical treatments. “I don’t believe in telling my story just so you can know my story and feel sorry for me,” she stated. “I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine.” She aims to inspire hope, particularly given the costly nature of the surgery, which is not yet covered by insurance.
Terry Crews, her supportive husband, shared his perspective on her journey, expressing the emotional toll of watching his wife battle the disease. “To watch her go through what she’s gone through over the last 10 to 12 years has been very, very hard,” he revealed. He noted the significance of her recent progress, saying, “To watch her write her name for the first time in three years, I don’t know what to say. I’m choked up just thinking about it.”
A Broader Perspective on Parkinson’s
In Canada alone, more than 120,000 individuals are living with Parkinson’s disease, according to Parkinson Canada. While no cure currently exists, various medications and therapies—including physiotherapy, speech therapy, and exercise—can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected by the condition.
Why it Matters
Rebecca King-Crews’ story is not just a personal narrative; it sheds light on the broader struggles faced by those living with Parkinson’s disease. By sharing her journey and the advancements in treatment, she fosters awareness and hope for countless others grappling with similar challenges. As the medical community continues to explore innovative therapies, her advocacy could prove invaluable in encouraging further research and support for individuals living with this debilitating condition.
