In a heartfelt revelation, Rebecca King-Crews, the wife of actor Terry Crews, has disclosed her ongoing struggle with Parkinson’s disease, a condition she has battled since 2015. During an appearance on the *Today* show, the couple shared insights into King-Crews’ diagnosis and discussed a promising new non-invasive surgical treatment she has recently undergone to alleviate her symptoms.
A Journey of Discovery
At 60 years old, King-Crews recounted her initial symptoms, which began around 2012 when she first experienced a peculiar numbness in her left foot during exercise. “About 2012, I just had some light numbness in my left foot,” she explained. This alarming development was soon accompanied by additional signs, including an unusual arm movement noted by her trainer and, ultimately, a shaking hand that she recognised as a tremor—something she was familiar with due to her grandmother’s own struggles.
Despite her health issues, King-Crews continued her professional 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 asserted, demonstrating her resilience in the face of adversity. Unfortunately, she faced a long and frustrating journey to diagnosis, stating it took three years for her to receive a formal confirmation of Parkinson’s from medical professionals who initially misattributed her symptoms to anxiety.
Treatment Breakthrough
In recent months, King-Crews has undergone a groundbreaking treatment known as bilateral focused ultrasound, a procedure that employs ultrasound waves to target specific areas of the brain thought to be involved in the movement difficulties associated with Parkinson’s. This innovative approach, guided by MRI technology, aims to provide relief from the debilitating symptoms of the disease.
Following her treatment, Rebecca expressed optimism about her recovery. “I feel good. I’m able to write my name and my dates for the first time in probably three years,” she shared, highlighting the small yet significant victories in her daily life. She also mentioned plans for a second procedure aimed at addressing ongoing symptoms such as tremors and numbness on her left side.
“I’m still figuring it out, to be honest,” King-Crews remarked, acknowledging the complexities of her recovery. “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 Hope
The decision to publicly share her health journey was not made lightly. King-Crews explained that while she valued her privacy, she felt compelled to raise awareness about Parkinson’s 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.”
Her husband, Terry Crews, spoke emotionally about the toll the illness has taken on their lives, describing the profound difficulty of watching his wife navigate her challenges. “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 admitted, emphasising the strength they have drawn from one another throughout their nearly 37 years of marriage.
The Broader Picture
According to Parkinson Canada, more than 120,000 individuals in Canada are currently living with Parkinson’s disease. While there is no definitive cure, various treatments and therapies including medications, physiotherapy, and speech therapy can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected.
King-Crews’ journey underscores the importance of ongoing research and the need for increased access to innovative treatments. She remains hopeful that advancements in medical science will ultimately lead to a cure for Parkinson’s, stating, “I believe that we’re going to find a cure.”
Why it Matters
Rebecca King-Crews’ courageous openness about her health battle shines a light on the realities faced by those living with Parkinson’s disease. Her story not only raises awareness of the condition but also highlights the critical importance of innovative treatments and the emotional support systems that individuals and families require. As discussions around health and wellness continue to evolve, King-Crews serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that resilience can flourish even in the face of daunting challenges.
