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Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, has disclosed her decade-long battle with Parkinson’s disease, a revelation that sheds light on the often-hidden struggles faced by many living with this neurological disorder. During an appearance on the *Today* show, King-Crews shared her experiences, the challenges of her diagnosis, and the promising results of a newly approved non-invasive surgical treatment aimed at alleviating her symptoms.
A Decade of Silent Struggle
At 60 years old, King-Crews reflected on her initial symptoms, which began around 2012 with a subtle numbness in her left foot while exercising. “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. This alarming pattern escalated when she awoke one morning to find her hand trembling. “I said, ‘Now that’s a tremor,’” she explained, drawing on the memory of her grandmother’s own tremors.
Despite her symptoms, King-Crews faced challenges in receiving a proper diagnosis. Initially dismissed by her doctor as anxiety, it took three years and multiple referrals before she was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2015. “It took three years to diagnose me,” she admitted during the interview, underscoring the often protracted journey many endure before receiving clarity on their health conditions.
Embracing Life Amidst Challenges
Throughout her diagnostic ordeal, King-Crews remained active in her career, working on various creative projects including a book, an album, and a fashion line. Her resilience shone through as she stated, “Just keep going. And that’s what I’m going to keep doing. I believe that you don’t lay down and die because you got a diagnosis.” This proactive attitude highlights the importance of maintaining one’s passions and pursuits, even in the face of debilitating illness.
In the years since her diagnosis, King-Crews has experienced the progressive nature of Parkinson’s, a condition that gradually deteriorates motor functions. Yet, following her recent treatment, she expressed feelings of improvement. The bilateral focused ultrasound procedure she underwent has proven beneficial, allowing her to regain capabilities she had lost. “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, relishing in a newfound sense of normalcy.
A New Hope in Treatment
The non-invasive treatment King-Crews received employs ultrasound waves directed at specific areas of the brain, guided by MRI technology to alleviate movement-related symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. Following the procedure, she noted improvements in her ability to perform daily tasks and expressed optimism about an upcoming second treatment intended to address remaining symptoms. “I’m still figuring it out, to be honest… So, you’re improved on one side and not on the other,” she explained, acknowledging the complexities of recovery.
King-Crews chose this moment to share her journey in hopes of raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease and the innovative treatments available, despite having kept her diagnosis private for many years. “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 commitment to advocacy is evident, as she aims to foster hope for others grappling with the disease.
Support from Family
Terry Crews, King-Crews’ husband, revealed the emotional toll of watching his wife navigate her health challenges. “To watch her go through what she’s gone through… has been very, very hard,” he said, describing the impact of her tremors and balance issues. His admiration for her strength and determination shines through as he describes her resilience, stating, “I knew my wife was a superhero when she already went through cancer and defeated it.”
Together, the couple’s message is one of partnership, encouragement, and unwavering support, demonstrating the power of love in the face of adversity. “When it’s in sickness and health, this is the battle that we were designed to fight together,” Terry added, reinforcing their commitment to one another over nearly four decades.
Why it Matters
The journey of Rebecca King-Crews serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of awareness and advocacy in the realm of neurological disorders. With over 120,000 individuals living with Parkinson’s in Canada alone, her story not only highlights the struggles faced by many but also the advancements in treatment options that offer hope for a better quality of life. By sharing her experiences, King-Crews is not only fostering a greater understanding of Parkinson’s disease but also igniting conversations about the need for continued research and support for those affected. As we strive for a future where such treatments become more accessible, her courage becomes a beacon of hope for countless others navigating similar paths.
