Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, has opened up about her decade-long struggle with Parkinson’s disease, a condition that affects the central nervous system and impairs motor functions. During an interview on the Today show, the couple shared insights into her diagnosis, the challenges they faced, and a promising new non-invasive treatment she recently underwent to alleviate her symptoms.
A Journey of Diagnosis
At 60 years old, King-Crews has been living with Parkinson’s since 2015, although her symptoms began manifesting in 2012. Initially, she experienced numbness in her left foot while exercising, which raised concerns for her trainer. “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 during the interview. The turning point came when she woke up one morning to discover her hand shaking, leading her to realise she was experiencing a tremor—something she recognised from her grandmother’s struggles with the condition.
Despite the alarming symptoms, King-Crews faced a frustrating journey to diagnosis. Medical professionals initially attributed her symptoms to anxiety, and it took three years of tests and consultations before she received a definitive diagnosis of Parkinson’s. “It took three years to diagnose me,” she explained. Throughout this challenging period, she remained committed to her creative 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 affirmed, highlighting her determination in the face of adversity.
Breakthrough Treatment
Following her diagnosis, King-Crews has sought various methods to manage her condition, which includes progressive damage to the brain leading to tremors, rigidity, and slowed movements. Recently, she underwent a bilateral focused ultrasound procedure, a groundbreaking treatment that utilises ultrasound waves to target specific areas of the brain associated with movement disorders. According to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, this non-invasive procedure is guided by MRI to ensure precision.
Reflecting on her recovery, King-Crews said, “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 also expressed excitement about her ability to perform a ballet move, indicating significant improvements in her mobility. King-Crews is set to have a second treatment in September to address ongoing symptoms, particularly on her left side.
Raising Awareness
King-Crews chose to share her story now to raise awareness about Parkinson’s, having kept her diagnosis private for a decade. “I don’t believe in telling my story just so you can know my story and feel sorry for me,” she stated emphatically. “I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine.” She underscored the importance of hope for others living with Parkinson’s, emphasising that while her surgery is currently expensive and not yet covered by insurance, it represents potential advancements in treatment.
Terry Crews expressed his admiration for his wife’s resilience, stating, “To watch her go through what she’s gone through over the last 10 to 12 years has been very, very hard.” He highlighted the emotional toll of witnessing her struggles with tremors, sleep disturbances, and balance issues. “When it’s in sickness and health, this is the battle that we were designed to fight together,” he remarked, showcasing their unwavering commitment to one another.
The Broader Context of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects over 120,000 individuals in Canada, according to Parkinson Canada. While there is no definitive cure, various medications and therapies, including physiotherapy and exercise, can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected. King-Crews’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the personal battles faced by many living with chronic conditions, highlighting the need for ongoing research and support in the field of neurology.
Why it Matters
Rebecca King-Crews’ candid revelation about her experience with Parkinson’s disease not only sheds light on the complexities of diagnosis and treatment but also underscores the importance of hope and resilience. Her story brings attention to the advancements in non-invasive medical procedures that may offer relief to countless individuals suffering from similar conditions. By sharing her journey, she advocates for greater awareness and understanding, ultimately contributing to a broader societal conversation about health, wellness, and the ongoing fight for a cure.