"It felt like a bomb went off—complete numbness washed over me." This is likely the initial shock most people feel when diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

“When you discover you have Parkinson’s, especially at a young age, it can feel like your entire world comes to a halt. You’re forced to reevaluate your career, your family—everything,” shared one Parkinson’s patient. “But for me, it was the exact opposite because, in a way, I’ve always been living with it from the start!”

Many VOCIC users are individuals living with Parkinson’s, including Seth Bugajinsky.

"I used to fall all the time, time after time. I’d stumble, and honestly, I have no idea how I managed for so long!" Seth shared. Due to his Parkinson’s, he developed severe balance issues. Yet beyond physical challenges, one of the greatest hurdles for patients is accepting the diagnosis itself—it’s a profound psychological battle.

"Parkinson's has truly taken me through an emotional and physical journey," Seth continued, "At first, accepting the loss of control was incredibly difficult. I used to be an independent person, rarely relying on others. Now, every action demands meticulous care—I have to guard against the risk of falling from something as simple as standing or turning."

For Seth, the gradual loss of balance has been more than a physical limitation; it has felt like a profound challenge to his dignity. Each day, he reminds himself to slow down and concentrate on tasks he once did without a second thought, like standing up from a chair, reaching for a glass of water, or even taking a few steps. It’s as though an invisible presence constantly monitors him, reminding him of the need to coexist with this condition.

Seth once felt crushed by the physical and emotional toll Parkinson's took on him, but with the unwavering support of his loved ones, he chose to let go of resistance and accept what he couldn't change—to embrace Parkinson's and the body that has been so altered by it.

"Now, every day is important," he said. "Parkinson's has redefined what it means for me to truly live. Yes, it has taken some abilities from me, but it has also taught me an entirely new way of living. I've learned to cherish the moments that may seem insignificant—a warm embrace, a simple dinner with family, even the first rays of morning sunlight."

In the past, he would shy away from going out. But now, he hopes to reengage with the world and rediscover his place in it.

Seth recently acquired a new VOCIC Z71 rollator walker, which has been a tremendous asset, allowing him to move freely around his home without constantly fearing a fall.

“When I first used the VOCIC walker, it felt like gaining a ‘companion’ that supported me along the way, ” Seth said with a smile. “It lets me move around my home without worrying about the floor slipping beneath me. Even outdoors, I feel an added sense of security, and the anxiety just melts away. ”

“It has worked great for me so far, ” Seth remarked, especially appreciating the Z71’s large wheels. “I had a cheap walker with small wheels, and it was tough to maneuver around my house. This one glides smoothly, and it’s much better for me, ” he added.

With the help of the rollator walker, Seth has not only regained some mobility but, more importantly, a renewed sense of control over his life. Parkinson’s may have taken much from him, but it has also taught him to find peace with himself and his circumstances. While physical challenges remain, his resilience allows him to face the future with steadfast positivity.

Like Seth, other individuals with Parkinson's are also facing life with resilience, challenging themselves, and spreading awareness to increase understanding and support for Parkinson’s.

One of these inspiring individuals is Frankie. When first diagnosed, Frankie, like many others, felt overwhelmed.

“After my diagnosis, I didn’t want to tell anyone,” Frankie admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘What’s happening to me?’ Maybe I was too wrapped up in myself, but I felt it was my burden alone to carry. I was embarrassed, and I’m ashamed to admit that now.”

“Even now, I still choose carefully who I talk to and what I share,” Frankie explained. “People can be intrusive, but I’ve learned that most aren’t shocked or fearful when they hear about it.”

To break stereotypes and encourage others like him, Frankie has taken on a range of activities that might surprise people. He has tried paragliding, riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, and even going horseback riding. “The horseback ride scared me the whole way,” he laughed, “but I survived—and now I have a story to tell!”

One of the challenges for people with Parkinson’s is often the difficulty of opening up. VOCIC wants to say: we’re here to listen. The VOCIC family includes people just like you, who are actively facing Parkinson’s with courage.

If you feel no one is there to listen, VOCIC will be. We have a team of people who understand you, including friends who share similar experiences. They’ll be there, ready to connect—as long as you’re willing to take the first step.

VOCIC is also committed to sharing knowledge and user stories on its website and social media platforms, aiming to deepen public understanding of Parkinson’s and inspire support. Learn more: VOCIC-Medical