Another Paul with Parkinson's

Paul Ruby receives the $25,000 grant from Markham Vineyards President Bryan Del Bondio on behalf of the Markham Mark of Distinction program

Lately it seems most of the Pauls in my life have Parkinson’s. Meet yet another Paul with Parkinson’s: Paul Ruby, 45, who resides in Geneva, Illinois with his wife Linda and their two boys, Wes, 11 and Logan, 8.

After two years of chronic stiffness in his left arm and right leg, Paul went through a battery of neurological tests to determine the cause. In July of 2006, Paul was formally diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's Disease.

Initially it was difficult to find something positive about being diagnosed with a degenerative disease with no cure. After the initial shock of learning his diagnosis, Paul decided the best way for him to move forward was to create the Paul Ruby Foundation for Parkinson's Research (established in February of 2007). The Foundation's goal is to increase awareness, raise money and support research to find a cure for Parkinson's Disease.

Paul realized that with the help of his friends and in partnership with the Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center of Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and Northwestern Memorial Hospital, they could make a difference in the search for a cure. They share a vision of increasing clinical research to extend the knowledge and treatment of Parkinson's Disease.

Paul’s organization applied for a grant from Markham Vineyards, who awarded $25,000 grants to two organizations committed to making a Mark of Distinction. This program received hundreds of inspiring and impactful project proposals. Markham Vineyards was honored to announce the two 2009 $25,000 grant recipients: Long Island Sled Hockey in Lynbrook, New York, and the Paul Ruby Foundation in Geneva, Illinois.

Paul Ruby’s Interview with Kate Kelsall

Kate: After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease three years ago, what prompted you to start a foundation? Many of us including me, were in denial during the early stages of Parkinson’s? What is it about you that instead of wallowing in denial, you took action?

Paul: I was inspired by my son (10 at the time) to be proactive. Soon after I was diagnosed he wrote then President Bush asking him to reconsider his stance on stem cell research.

Kate: What was the best and worst advice you’ve ever received after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s?

Paul: A doctor told me all of the things I wouldn't be able to do and finished by stating "but it's not a death sentence."  I would rather focus on the things I am thankful for and things that I can do.

Kate: What is the best and worst thing you’ve done for yourself in terms of managing your Parkinson’s?

Paul: Best - Exercising. I go to a Pilates class twice a week. Worst - I could definitely eat less pizza.

Kate: I’m assuming you are in some way involved in music with your fundraiser, Concert for the Cure. What impact does music have on you and your life with Parkinson’s?

Paul: We found that unlike a golf outing or a charity ball everyone including kids can enjoy and connect with music.  Music also helps carry our positive message.

Kate: How did you find out about the Markham Mark of Distinction program? Does Markham Vineyards have an interest in the area of Parkinson’s?

Paul: A friend of mine in the wine business knew of the program and thought the Paul Ruby Foundation would be a perfect fit. I believe Bryan Del Bondio and the Markham staff now have a better understanding of the disease and have connected with the cause.

Kate: What are your goals for the Paul Ruby Foundation?

Paul: To "go out of business" because a cure has been found.