In 2006, I moved to Texas, onto an 11-acre property surrounded by larger farms that have been cultivated for nearly a century. I was full of dreams of living off the land, but instead, I encountered an unexpected battle with my health. In 2007, I began experiencing symptoms that would drastically alter the course of my life, leading to a Parkinson’s diagnosis in October 2022. Seeking answers, I looked into every possible cause, but I would soon learn that the reality was grounded in the air, water, and land around me. 

In 2020, my mother joined us on our property, and to our dismay, she began showing similar symptoms by 2021. In 2024, she too was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Our physician conducted a genetic test, and the results returned negative, pointing towards environmental causes over hereditary ones.

This reality is part of a broader epidemic plaguing many Americans. The prevalent use of herbicides and pesticides, particularly Roundup and Paraquat, is heavily contributing to deteriorating health conditions nationwide. Besides the processed food typical of the Standard American Diet, these chemical agents are among the top five factors making Americans sick. There is considerable evidence suggesting that exposure to these substances increases the risk of developing neurological diseases like Parkinson’s. My MDS (doctor) shared with us that when she was starting her practice in movement disorders she wanted to open her practice in the Central Valley, California, where 1 in 5 people are diagnosed with Parkinson's!!! I grew up in the Bay Area, right next door!

According to scientific studies conducted by reputable institutions, exposure to Paraquat, and it's sister names/companies, double the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States reported alarming levels of these chemicals in agricultural zones where Paraquat use is substantial. (AI) Despite these findings, herbicides and pesticides continue to be widely used across the country, representing a significant risk to our health and environment. 

Such dangerous chemicals should not continue to be present in our food and water supply, and their widespread use must be stopped. Banning herbicides and pesticides would make a profound impact, reducing the prevalence of health conditions attributed to them, and ultimately saving lives. Why are we still using these chemicals when other countries have banned them? What did/do they know that we don't?

Right now there is a lawsuit against the makers of Paraquat. Because my mom and I were not directly or occupationally exposed we do not qualify as plaintiffs. I feel that we were directly exposed, even if I don't have proof yet. I need to find out what that little yellow cropduster has been spraying all around my farm during the growing season for the last 2 or more decades. Also, I'd like to have our soil and water tested. Erin Brockovich where are you???

I have added a picture of myself right after aDBS surgeries 12/2024-3/2025. I was misdiagnosed for 16 years and suffered from this disease I didn’t ask for! And now my mom has it! I fear for the rest of my family, the children I raise here, my husband. I still suffer today, as I was diagnosed with advanced Parkinson's. aDBS isn't an exact science, it still has to be controlled by a professional and we are all very different patients. Most of my movement, or motor, symptoms are being controlled by the aDBS, but my non-motor symptoms are a daily struggle. 

I belong to a "private" Facebook support group called "Life with Parkinson's". It seems to be the biggest and most supportive as far as I can see. Also, the most worldwide. It seems that every day people join the group saying they just got the diagnosis. This disease used to be an old person's disease or genetic, and now its affecting more and more younger folks. I was only 40 when my symptoms began. I dare to say it's becoming an epidemic. Many MDS Neurologists stand on the side that says this is an environmental disease. The number is growing, with all the studies.

I urge you to imagine the relief and safety that could be afforded to current and future generations by eradicating these toxic substances. Take a stand with us to protect the health and well-being of countless Americans. Your signature can make a difference in advocating for safer agricultural practices. Please sign this petition to ban the use of herbicides and pesticides in the United States.