Ryan Reynolds has opened up about his father, James Chester Reynolds, who died at 74 after battling Parkinson’s disease for nearly two decades. Reynolds is partnering with the educational campaign More to Parkinson’s to raise awareness and provide resources for families and caregivers.
James Chester Reynolds experienced a range of symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions, part of a spectrum due to psychosis. These symptoms, which affect 20% to 40% of Parkinson’s patients in the early stages, can often be overlooked. Reynolds’ father also faced more common early signs like a decreased sense of smell, constipation, and small, cramped handwriting.
Reynolds has shared that his father’s diagnosis was initially kept secret, making it difficult for him to understand what was happening. He emphasizes that early symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as voice changes and stooped posture, can precede classic movement symptoms by a decade or more. This lack of awareness can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Tammy Reynolds, Ryan’s mother, was the chief caregiver for James as he struggled with both motor symptoms and delusions. Reynolds has highlighted the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding Parkinson’s disease, noting how his father’s condition affected the entire family.
As a parent to four children with his wife, Blake Lively, Reynolds has gained new perspective and named his oldest child James after his father. He hopes to raise awareness of both the physical and psychological effects of Parkinson’s disease.
Reynolds’ involvement with More to Parkinson’s aims to educate the public about lesser-known symptoms and provide additional support for those affected. By sharing his family’s journey, he hopes to foster understanding and reduce the stigma associated with the disease.
Parts of this article has been sourced by Healthline and fact-checked by Jennifer Chesak, MSJ
Featured Image courtesy of Daily Mail
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