Overview

Elegance in Motion is more than a title-it's a way of life. In her fourth book, Maria De León (a.k.a. the Parkinson's Diva) shares an extraordinary journey of perseverance, grace, and reinvention. From defying the odds to become a physician and movement disorder specialist to facing an unexpected Parkinson's diagnosis at the height of her career, Maria's story is one of resilience, transformation, and unwavering faith. Balancing her roles as a doctor, patient, mother, and caregiver to her grandmother, she discovered that true strength isn't just about survival-it's about thriving with style and purpose. Through heartfelt, humorous, and deeply personal reflections, Maria invites readers into the defining moments that reshaped her life and mission. With elegance, confidence, and an unshakable spirit, she empowers women with Parkinson's and other chronic illnesses to embrace life fully-facing challenges with poise, living boldly, and always holding steadfast to God's unchanging hand.

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9781956856552

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Reviews

Dr. De León does it again, proving why she is the Parkinson's Diva extraordinaire. Written in her trademark flair, this book is packed with practicality and important information-and her delightful sense of humor is the cherry on top! Wilma Cordova, MSW Director and professor of school social work at SFA university A Parkinson's diagnosis can feel like one's life has been brought to a screeching halt. De León's Elegance in Motion provides solace and comfort in light of these challenges. She vulnerably shares the story of her diagnosis interwoven loving and sometimes humorous portrayals of her life journey, offering context to the experience of Parkinson's disease. Vanessa Reiser, filmmaker Reading Elegance in Motion connected me with my essence, my roots-who I am-as it represents all Latin women and how the love of family influences us throughout life. My parents have Parkinson's, and the process of receiving a diagnosis, accepting it, and moving forward can be quite a challenge. There are angels who are here to help us, to reaffirm our faith, and Maria De León is one of them. Adriana Jiminez, director of Give For a Smile (GFAS)

Author Information

María L. De León, M.D., is a fellowship-trained movement disorder specialist, patient, caregiver, and passionate advocate for gender equity in healthcare. For over two decades, she has championed women's health, particularly in Parkinson's disease (PD), pioneering research on gender differences in neurological conditions. She played a key role in developing the Women & PD Initiative and authored The Parkinson's Diva, the first book addressing the unique challenges women face with the disease. Through her work with organizations like the World Parkinson Coalition (WPC), she has helped bridge gaps in care, raise awareness, and advocate for more inclusive research and treatment strategies.Dr. De León collaborates with leading institutions, including the NIH, FDA, DOD, and the Michael J. Fox Foundation, contributing to research on early PD detection and clinical trial design. She co-authored the first paper on the effects of PD medications on menstruation and developed In Her Shoes, a guide for women living with PD. Committed to empowering Hispanic communities, she works with Give for a Smile and the PD Gene Latino project to increase representation in genetic research and expand access to care. A recipient of multiple awards, including the 2021 MJFF Public Policy Award, and a two-time finalist for Healthcare Collaborator Champion, Dr. De León continues to be a driving force in the fight for equitable and patient-centered care in Parkinson's disease.

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