Dr. Sara Whittingham, an anesthesiologist and Air Force veteran, first dismissed her forgetfulness and mid-sentence pauses. The family had moved from Utah to Ohio amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which led her to think stress was the cause. But a visible tremor in her arm during a November 2020 family movie night led her to search online for answers.
She uncovered articles on Parkinson’s disease, and despite initial disbelief due to her age, she booked a consultation. A neurologist at Cleveland Clinic confirmed the diagnosis. Dr. Whittingham described the news as a gut-wrenching moment. Her future plans felt uncertain.
Parkinson’s Disease and Exercise
Parkinson’s is a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system, with symptoms that can start as mild tremors and progress, explains the Mayo Clinic. After her diagnosis, Dr. Whittingham experienced anxiety and depression. Hope came from a study on cycling’s impact on Parkinson’s progression. As a former runner, she eagerly joined.
The more I started riding the bike, the better I felt. I felt like I was coming back to life.
The research, led by Dr. Jay Alberts, revealed cycling could mimic effects of medication in the brain. Patients who cycled at least three times a week could slow disease progression. This “exercise prescription” offers self-directed control, critical for Parkinson’s patients.
Although the exact mechanism remains unclear, Dr. Ben Walter, Whittingham’s neurologist, suggests exercise may help manage stiffness and slowness, in addition to enhancing brain health.
Embracing New Challenges
Dr. Whittingham began a new chapter, encouraged by her husband to pursue triathlons. She kept her participation secret and surpassed expectations by beating her husband. Her ambitions expanded, culminating in a 2023 Ironman World Championship race.
To cross the finish line and hear my name — ‘Sara Whittingham, you’re an Ironman’ — three years after my diagnosis was just unreal.
In 2025, she joined another study focusing on communal exercise for Parkinson’s patients. The collective enthusiasm proved inspiring.
Advocacy and Outreach
Dr. Whittingham continues racing and participated in the 2024 U.S. Paralympic Team trials. Off the track, she advocates for Parkinson’s awareness. Speaking at a Michael J. Fox forum and joining a National Institutes of Health advisory council, she shares her story to motivate others.
Currently writing a book, she encourages setting ambitious goals. Dr. Whittingham highlights the brain’s adaptability and the value of continual progress.
You don’t need to finish an Ironman, but set the most outrageous goal you can think of. Whether or not you achieve that goal isn’t the point. Taking small steps will make you stronger and give you a purpose.
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