Jimmy Choi

At 27, Jimmy Choi was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease. In the years that followed, he went into denial and did little to manage his symptoms. By 2010, he relied on a cane to walk, and his lowest point came when he fell down a flight of stairs while carrying his young son. Although both escaped serious injury, the incident pushed Choi to confront his condition and commit to reclaiming control of his life physically, mentally and emotionally.

Choi began participating in clinical trials to help advance research into treatments and a potential cure for Parkinson’s. Through physical therapy, he discovered the benefits of running and other exercises that eased his symptoms and boosted his mental health. In 2012, he joined Team Fox and ran his first marathon, launching a journey that has taken him from endurance races to national television. For five consecutive years, he competed on “American Ninja Warrior,” showing that Parkinson’s would not define him and inspiring countless others facing similar challenges.

Today, Choi maintains a highly active lifestyle while living in the Chicago area with his wife, Cherryl, and their two children, Karina and Mason. Even during the pandemic, he found new ways to challenge himself, breaking a Guinness World Record for the most chest-to-ground burpees in one minute and tying the record for most side jump pushups in a minute. Beyond personal achievements, he has become a dedicated advocate for the Parkinson’s community. He serves as a patient council member for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, a board member for Rock Steady Boxing, and a fitness coach for both children and adults.

Through his advocacy and example, Choi continues to promote exercise as one of his most effective tools for managing Parkinson’s symptoms. He shares his day-to-day journey online, offering encouragement and insight while helping others believe that no diagnosis has to dictate their future.