Reflections on Muhammad Ali’s Parkinson journey
Ali’s story
Muhammad Ali’s Parkinson Disease (PD) could be, in part, attributed to boxing-related injuries. In the early days after his diagnosis, it was said that he began showing signs of PD after his retirement from boxing in 1981, ranging from tremors to slurred speech.
An overview of PD
Parkinson Disease is a movement disorder related to the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells and such symptoms as tremor, rigidity or stiffness; bradykinesia or slowness of movement; and unstable gait, balance and/or coordination. These symptoms increase over time, interfering with daily activities like grooming and eating and even mood disorders like depression or non-motor issues such as insomnia. PD impacts more than 1 million Americans and an estimated 10 million worldwide.Parkinson Disease (PD) is a movement disorder related to the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells and such symptoms as tremor, rigidity or stiffness; bradykinesia or slowness of movement; and unstable gait, balance and/or coordination. These symptoms increase over time, interfering with daily activities like grooming and eating and even mood disorders like depression or non-motor issues such as insomnia. PD impacts more than 1 million Americans and an estimated 10 million worldwide.
One cannot help but wonder what Ali thought when he was first diagnosed in 1984. A man who meant so much to so many, who was idolized around the world, and given a diagnosis that would change his life forever. One cannot help but think that maybe, just maybe, his positive outlook and kindness made it possible for him to live for 32 years with PD. For as long as he was able, he stayed in the public eye, sometimes doing things to make you forget that he was ever a boxer.
Indeed, Ali did not go away and hide.
What many Americans will remember the most was Muhammad Ali’s surprise appearance at the Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympics, where he lit the Olympic Torch.
But he did so much more.
In 1997, Ali and others established The Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center (MAPC) and Movement Disorder Clinic.
Around 1998, Ali teamed up with actor and fellow PD patient Michael J. Fox (diagnosed in 1991) to raise awareness and fund research for a cure. They appeared before Congress together and Ali promoted the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Fox and Ali went on to film a Public Service Announcement (PSA) together.
About Ali, Fox recently said in a statement, “Muhammad was a true legend – a champion in the boxing ring, and a champion for millions of Parkinson’s families. We looked up to him as an example of grace and courage in the face of great challenges. He will be missed.”
Ali actively participated in the making and promotion of his 2001 biopic, Ali. In 2002, he served as a United Nations Messenger of Peace.
As his condition progressed, his public appearances were limited. But, in July 2012, Ali attended the London 2012 Summer Olympics opening ceremonies, helping to bear the Olympic Flag.
His wife, Lonnie, proved to be a model caretaker. Interviewed in Arizona just a month before his death, she stated, “I learn every day from this man: the courage, the strength and the grace that he lives with his illness. For most people, it would put them in bed and put covers over them. They would give up. He does not stop. He continues to live life and that’s very important.”
“I learn every day from this man: the courage, the strength and the grace that he lives with his illness. For most people, it would put them in bed and put covers over them. They would give up. He does not stop. He continues to live life and that’s very important.”
The last two years of his life, Ali was reportedly hospitalized for pneumonia and a urinary tract infection. When he died, he was hospitalized with a respiratory illness, though his condition quickly deteriorated and led to his death from septic shock. That condition has likely left much of the PD community with questions.
While Parkinson’s itself isn’t considered fatal, people can die from complications of the disease. People die with PD but not from PD.
Legacy
In all of Ali’s post-boxing career activities, he created a legacy. Ali was the face of PD, positively impacting awareness, research advances, fundraising and inspiring us all.
Over his 32-year battle with PD, new drugs (like Duopa, Rytary, Nuplazid, etc.) and fresh therapies and treatments have been made available, improving life for thousands of PD patients. Some would say finding a cure for PD is becoming a question of when, not if. But what’s needed is a continued army of patients and families to help usher on continued progress. Participating in virtual, online and in-person clinical studies is one main way to do so. We still have a strong need to understand the disease more, learn about its causes and how we can cure it.
Ali certainly made his voice heard. He remained engaged, even when he was unable to use his voice. And, as demonstrated by the intense media coverage and the outpouring of emotion, support and tributes, Ali will remain one of the most well-known and recognizable faces the world has ever known.
“I’ve made my share of mistakes along the way, but if I have changed even one life for the better, I haven’t lived in vain.”– Muhammad Ali“I’ve made my share of mistakes along the way, but if I have changed even one life for the better, I haven’t lived in vain.”– Muhammad Ali
PD patients: Four ways to be inspired by his legacy
Partner with your neurologist
Neurologists are aware that not all PD patients see a specialist, but doing so can really help treat your condition. Gather your medical records, jot down your questions, and, if possible, invite your caretaker and be ready to listen to the experts. They will also refer you to social workers and therapists who can assist with issues of speech, swallowing, exercise, diet, driving and more.
Get moving
Depending on your exact condition, stage and symptoms, PD maybe affect you differently as it progresses. Some people may have only minor movement or non-motor issues, while others may end up with severe disabilities. But there are more and more studies showing that staying physically active can help PD patients. Exercise boosts your energy, maintains muscle tone, helps with strength, improves your overall health and mobility.
Do your part
Clinical trials exist in almost every state, and the more involvement we have by elders and those representing women, minority and rural populations, the better. Call 402.559.8839 for clinical trials going on locally.
Stay social and find hope
Maintain a social network to stay in touch with friends and family. Many PD patients meet with friends, attend religious services, visit family and/or join a PD support group. Contact us at 402.559.8839 for a group list.
It’s even recommended that patients join exercise groups for a social benefit. Rock Steady Boxing, a program specifically for PD patients, interestingly uses boxing to inspire PD patients to fight back. The program recognizes that PD patients, like boxers, are in a fight for their life, which, like Ali, gives reasons for many PD patients to have hope. There are sessions held weekly across the state.
For more information, visit the American Parkinson Disease Association. To schedule an appointment at Nebraska Medicine’s Movement Disorders Clinic, call 800.922.0000.
