Joe Gaeta, a Tampa Bay resident, is taking on a 31-mile walk to support his wife, Stacey, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020. The walk, which will take place on July 31, aims to raise money for The Michael J. Fox Foundation and bring awareness to the disease.
Parkinson’s Disease and Its Impact
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects nearly 1.1 million Americans, with about 90,000 people diagnosed each year. Gaeta’s wife, Stacey, was forced into early retirement due to the disease, and Gaeta has taken on more responsibilities as her caregiver.
Gaeta decided to take on the challenge of walking 31 miles on July 31 to raise money for Parkinson’s research and to show his support for his wife. The event is part of The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s July challenge, which encourages participants to walk one mile each day throughout the month.
Community Support
The walk will begin at 5 a.m. at American Legion Post 273 in Madeira Beach and will conclude back at the post with a celebration around 2 p.m. Community members are invited to join Gaeta on the walk, and those who cannot participate can support the fundraiser by donating to the cause.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
