2023 Optimism Award Recipient Brian Harris
Brian was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2017 at the age of 48 and has been supporting the Young Onset community and APDA ever since - with boundless energy, dedication, and optimism. Brian founded the Seattle-area Young Onset PD activity group (SEAYOPD) to provide a way to stay active and engaged with the outdoors, and in the process created critical connections and a vibrant community. Brian has been on the APDA Board of Directors since 2019 and an important contributor to annual Optimism Walks, support group outreach, Magic of Hope Gala & Auction, and much more. Brian is the first to volunteer and the first to follow-up with an email saying, “Now that I’ve finished this project, what is next?” He also meets regularly one-on-one with people newly diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s disease, offering guidance, resources, and calming reassurance.
When Brian was diagnosed, he was experiencing only a few minor symptoms that were outwardly evident, working full time (still is!), an outdoor enthusiast. He started searching for a group “like him,” but couldn’t find what he was looking for. So, he created it! In January 2018 Brian founded SEAYOPD and started planning monthly activities. Brian has contagious energy and optimism - and loves to plan adventures – and the group was an immediate success. The members of SEAYOPD have hiked numerous trails in the Cascades and at urban parks, snowshoed and cross country skied at Snoqualmie Pass, “rode the rails” on the Olympic Peninsula, kayaked around Elliott Bay, and whitewater rafted down the Wenatchee River (three times!). They’ve taken private tours of cathedrals and enjoyed member-led concerts. The group continues to grow, and everyone is welcome.
While the SEAYOPD outings offered great exercise, one of the biggest benefits was the camaraderie and community that resulted. This group continues to provide hope and optimism in light of a difficult diagnosis – a place to ask questions, share resources, and discuss hopes and fears.
Brian also recognizes the importance of raising funds to pay for valuable education and resources. He captains the SEAYOPD Optimism Walk team - the top fundraising team for the past three years – and raised $26,915 in 2022 and a cumulative $99,500 since 2018! He serves on the Optimism Walk committee and also volunteers at other APDA fundraising events and is always a huge factor in their success.
We are thrilled to honor Brian Harris as our 2023 Optimism Award Winner! THANK YOU to Brian for all that he does for his Parkinson’s community.
- “I appreciate how well you welcome new people every time we get together (and remember so many people’s names!), facilitate and organize a diverse group, communicate and communicate and communicate. Fun things, educational things, advocacy, care partner groups, and more. Thank you, Brian, for your energy, work, and care.” - SEAYOPD member
- “You – and the fabulous support group you have created – have been a great influence on why I’m not feeling sorry for myself anymore. Instead, I embrace life and am in awe of all the wonderful things I can still do and enjoy.” – SEAYOPD member
Do you or someone you know have young onset PD and want to learn more about SEAYOPD? Check out https://seayopd.com/ or email seayopd@gmail.com. Contact us at apdanw@apdaparkinson.org if you are interested in starting a YOPD group in your community.