In a heartfelt interview on the *Today* show, Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, disclosed that she has been living with Parkinson’s disease since 2015. The couple opened up about her journey with the condition and discussed a promising new non-invasive treatment that has brought her some relief. King-Crews’ story sheds light on the challenges of managing a chronic illness while maintaining a vibrant professional life.
A Long Road to Diagnosis
At 60 years old, King-Crews reflected on the initial signs of her Parkinson’s diagnosis, which first manifested in 2012. What began as a slight numbness in her left foot during exercise gradually escalated into more troubling 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 recounted. Eventually, she recognised the tremors in her hand, a symptom she was familiar with due to her grandmother’s own struggles with the condition.
Despite her persistent symptoms, it was a long and frustrating journey to receive a definitive diagnosis. King-Crews stated that her physician initially attributed her symptoms to anxiety, leading her to seek multiple referrals. “It took three years to diagnose me,” she said candidly, emphasising the importance of advocacy in healthcare.
Embracing New Treatments
After finally receiving her diagnosis in 2015, King-Crews has bravely navigated the complexities of living with Parkinson’s disease. This neurodegenerative disorder gradually damages brain cells, leading to symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and slowed movement. While a cure remains elusive, advancements in treatment provide hope.
Recently, she underwent a bilateral focused ultrasound procedure, a non-invasive treatment that utilises targeted ultrasound waves to alleviate motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. “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,” King-Crews shared, expressing optimism about her recovery. “They say it’s about three months of recovery. As you recover, you see more improvement.”
King-Crews plans to have a follow-up procedure in September to address lingering symptoms on her left side. She acknowledged the duality of her experience, saying, “You’re improved on one side and not on the other, so it can make you feel a little more aware of the other.”
Raising Awareness and Inspiring Others
Having kept her diagnosis private for a decade, King-Crews now feels compelled to share her journey. “I don’t believe in telling my story just so you can know my story and feel sorry for me,” she explained. “I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine.”
Her husband, Terry Crews, expressed his unwavering support, describing the emotional toll of watching his wife cope with her illness. “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,” he said, reflecting on the profound impact of her recent treatment.
Despite the challenges, both King-Crews and her husband are hopeful that increasing awareness about such treatments can provide encouragement to others facing similar struggles. “I believe we’re going to find a cure,” she affirmed.
The Broader Context of Parkinson’s Disease
In Canada alone, over 120,000 individuals are living with Parkinson’s disease, according to Parkinson Canada. While there is currently no definitive cure, various medications and therapies—including physiotherapy and exercise—can significantly enhance the quality of life for those affected. King-Crews’ openness about her diagnosis not only shines a light on the realities of living with Parkinson’s but also underscores the importance of medical advancements in managing this complex condition.
Why it Matters
Rebecca King-Crews’ courageous disclosure and her journey towards treatment are a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those living with chronic illnesses. Her story highlights the critical need for increased awareness and research into innovative treatment options that can improve lives. As she advocates for hope and healing, her experience serves as an inspiration for many, encouraging both patients and healthcare providers to prioritize proactive approaches in the face of daunting health challenges.
