In a heartfelt interview on the Today show, Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, disclosed her decade-long battle with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder that impacts the nervous system and motor functions. The couple discussed the challenges of living with the illness and the recent non-invasive surgical procedure that has provided Rebecca with a glimmer of hope in managing her symptoms.
A Decade of Silence
At 60 years old, King-Crews shared that her journey with Parkinson’s began in 2012, when she first noticed a tingling sensation in her left foot during exercise. This seemingly innocuous symptom soon escalated, prompting a series of troubling signs, including a lack of arm movement while walking and tremors that she initially brushed off as anxiety. “I woke up one morning and my hand was shaking. I said, ‘Now that’s a tremor,'” she recalled.
Despite her concerns, it took three years and multiple consultations before she received a formal diagnosis in 2015. Describing the frustrating journey, she remarked, “No disrespect to him, but I asked for referrals and I got them. It took three years to diagnose me.” Throughout this period, King-Crews continued to pursue her creative projects, including writing a book and launching a clothing line. Her resilience shines through in her determination: “I believe that you don’t lay down and die because you got a diagnosis.”
A New Hope in Treatment
Recently, King-Crews underwent a bilateral focused ultrasound, a groundbreaking non-invasive procedure that utilises targeted ultrasound waves to alleviate some of the debilitating symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. Following the treatment, 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.”
This innovative procedure, guided by MRI technology, aims to enhance movement by selectively targeting areas of the brain impacted by Parkinson’s. King-Crews noted that the recovery process may take around three months, during which she expects to see further improvements. She is already planning a second procedure to address lingering issues, such as numbness and tremors on her left side.
Raising Awareness and Inspiring Others
King-Crews has chosen this moment to share her story publicly, having kept her condition 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 explained. Her aim is to raise awareness about Parkinson’s and highlight the potential of emerging treatments. “I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine,” she said, emphasising the importance of hope for patients facing similar challenges.
Terry Crews voiced his admiration for his wife’s tenacity, describing her as a “superhero” for her ability to endure not only Parkinson’s but also a previous battle with cancer. “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 shared, underscoring the emotional toll that this journey has taken on their family.
The Broader Context of Parkinson’s Disease
In Canada alone, over 120,000 individuals live with Parkinson’s disease, according to Parkinson Canada. While there is currently no definitive cure, various medications and therapies—such as physiotherapy and speech therapy—can significantly enhance quality of life. King-Crews’ experience illustrates both the personal struggles associated with this condition and the broader societal implications of living with a chronic illness.
Why it Matters
Rebecca King-Crews’ candid revelation about her Parkinson’s diagnosis serves to illuminate the often-overlooked struggles faced by those living with the disease. By sharing her journey and the promising new treatments available, she hopes to inspire others to seek help and advocate for more accessible and effective medical options. Her story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.
