Search for a Mentor in Colorado/Wyoming

I am a registered nurse with 10 years of clinical experience, including four years dedicated to outpatient neurosurgery with a focus on patients living with Parkinson’s Disease. During that time, I served as a clinical coordinator and educator, supporting individuals undergoing advanced therapies such as deep brain stimulation. My role allowed me to work closely with patients, families, and caregivers, guiding them through complex treatment pathways and helping them better understand disease progression and care options.

I developed a strong foundation in coordinating multidisciplinary care teams, including neurologists, neurosurgeons, therapists, and support services. I also became a consistent and reliable point of contact that someone could turn to with questions, concerns, or simply reassurance during what can often feel like an overwhelming journey.

My passion for mentorship comes from witnessing firsthand how valuable guidance and connection can be for those navigating Parkinson’s Disease. Beyond clinical care, patients and caregivers often need someone who listens, understands, and can offer practical advice rooted in real experience. I want to be that resource that someone who not only provides knowledge but also encouragement and confidence.

I believe mentorship is about building trust, fostering resilience, and helping others feel less alone. Supporting individuals at any stage of Parkinson’s, whether newly diagnosed or managing advanced symptoms, is deeply meaningful to me. My goal is to help others feel informed, supported, and empowered to make decisions that improve their quality of life.

Contact Brandon:

I was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) at the age of 44 in 2015. I originally went to a neurologist with a tremor and many other non-motor symptoms, then after 2+ years of completing a gamut of tests the neurologist “phoned a friend” an MDS. He saw me about a week later and gave me the diagnosis; then sent me on my way.

Back to work I go, after all I have a husband, a 9- and 11-year-old that need me. I pretty much ignored the PD (the MDS advised that wouldn’t last very long) and didn’t tell anyone (besides immediate family) for the first several years, aside from routine doctor visits to the MDS. Each visit a new medication was added to my regimen. In 2021, the dyskinesias were so horrible the MDS recommended I look into DBS and I took the plunge.

In 2022, my family and I quickly realized that DBS wasn’t enough, and it was time to retire so I could live better with PD. I have always exercised regularly, but now I go outside for a walk daily, go to the gym, and attend PD based classes. I have many connections in the PD community and I’m proud to call many of them friends. I have not given in to this unpredictable disease, but I’m going to LIVE MY LIFE!

Contact Kenlynn:

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, within days of my 70 birthday. In the summer of 2024 I packed us for a move to Cheyenne and unpacked us when we got here. I arranged a new home without issues. In October I was walking a mile a day. In late November I started falling. In the early summer of 2025 (the worst year of my life) I was using a cane but really needed a rollator. By fall I was able to use the rollator but I could not stand or walk even a couple feet without assistance. That was a low point . As my husband and caregiver started to take over responsibilities that I have handled throughout our 53 years of marriage, the finances, the cooking, baking, I felt that Parkinson’s had taken my life away.

To make a long story short God and I had a talk and I resolved not to let go. I was still in control of my attitude, if not my body. With help from God, a mental health provider, a new motion disorder specialist and a physical therapist, I got stronger. There are still days that I cry but I can settle myself and get through it. I still use the rollator and can only stand for a few seconds but I try to remain as active as I can. I go to the gym at least twice a week and exercise with You Tube on the other days.

I have a need to be needed. There are not a lot of opportunities for a non-mobile person to volunteer. Being a mentor is one way that I might help others deal with this nasty disease. As a mentor I will talk about God and how He gets me through the day and events that cause anxiety. I won’t try to convert you but I believe that God is directing me to help if I can. I will also cry. Don’t be alarmed. I tear up at any sad or glad occasion, whether I am part of it or not. I’m blaming Parkinson’s for that. So I adapt.
I can listen. I can share my experiences. I can laugh and cry with you

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Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2018, Tracy has become a true champion for the PD community. It was actually her nephew, a former Golden Gloves Champion and then Rock Steady Boxing coach, who first noticed her symptoms and encouraged her to see a neurologist. From that first visit, she walked away with a copy of the inspiring book ‘Every Victory Counts,’ Tracy found her passion.

Fast forward to June 2025, and Tracy became an ambassador with the Davis Phinney Foundation, now enthusiastically sharing the ‘Every Victory Counts’ message with others. She’s not just talking-the-talk – she’s deeply involved in research trials, support groups, and events like Pedaling for Parkinson’s. Tracy truly believes in living life to the fullest with PD, even picking up snowboarding when skiing got a bit tricky. She’s the heart behind what she calls the S.N.A.R.K.Y. Parky Support Community – that’s Safe/Support, Networking, Advocacy, Resources, Knowledge, and Your Voice.

Tracy’s personal mantra really says it all: ‘You may be a person with Parkinson’s but you’re so much more.’