Parkinson’s Awareness
Since being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (PD), Bill has been warmly embraced by many others who have a similar diagnosis or know someone who has been affected. His goal is to spread the news with his enthusiasm for life and his message: Never Give Up!
ANNOUNCEMENT
The Michael J. Fox Foundation Collaborates with ESPN Founder Bill Rasmussen to Champion Engagement of Newly Diagnosed Parkinson’s Patients in Research
MAY 28, 2020, New YORK, NY and SEATTLE, WA — The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) announced that Bill Rasmussen has joined its team to help speed a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Mr. Rasmussen is the storied founder of ESPN, the world’s first 24-hour, 7-days-a-week sports television network, who ushered in a new era of 24/7 broadcast sports news and coverage. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2014 at age 81, he has taken on the disease with his signature positive attitude and commitment to staying active, embracing engagement and inspiring others, one person at a time . . . Read Full Release
ESPN Front Row Blog - Watch Video - Bill speaks speaks with ESPN reporter Michele Steele, a longtime supporter of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, about his new role.
Michael J. Fox Foundation Blog - ESPN Founder on Collaborating with MJFF: “I hope my life story can help more people — even just one more person.”
Parkinson’s Resources
Bill continues to innovate and is working on a kit that will help anyone keep active, with additional information and tools for people who have Parkinson's and other afflictions that prevent them from being as active as they would like.
Meanwhile, his speaking availability is limited, so schedule your event with Bill early to make sure your audience is engaged and pleased.
Read more about Rasmussen’s experience with Parkinson’s on ESPN Front Row.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
“Whether Parkinson’s-related or not, the obstacles in my life won’t stop — and I won’t let them stop me. I make workarounds to address the disease and I accept it for what it is. I still enjoy meeting new people. And I continue to be grateful that I can share my story. I hope my life story can help more people — even just one more person.”
The first few months and years following a Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis can be overwhelming. Few people think about participating in clinical trials during this time. But people in this fleeting window are in a unique position to contribute to research and help scientists capture the full continuum of Parkinson’s. Read More
American Parkinson Disease Association - APDA
Bill Rasmussen is associated with his local chapter of American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA). They focus on education and support for people living with Parkinson's and their loved ones. They also provide support for research. APDA has an extensive grassroots network dedicated to fighting Parkinson’s disease at the local level.
Bill's local chapter named him "Honorary Optimism Walk Chair" for the 2020 APDA Northwest Virtual Optimism Walk.
SEATTLE, WA, MAY 22, 2020 – Life as we know it has taken a pause, but Parkinson’s disease (PD) has not. Exciting voices from the media and arts community lend their support for the American Parkinson Disease Association’s (APDA) signature fundraiser, the APDA Northwest Virtual Optimism Walk, taking place Sunday, May 31. Founder of ESPN Bill Rasmussen, legendary Sports Radio host Dave “The Groz” Grosby, and Grammy award winning vocalist Michael “Wanz” Wansley each bring their unique talents and passion to support the Parkinson’s community. The event is free and online registration is open… Read More
ESPN Founder Bill Rasmussen, who is living with Parkinson's disease talks about being the honorary walk chair for the 2020 APDA Northwest Virtual Optimism Walk on Sunday May 31.