My Story: Bonnie Kays
| March 14, 2022
Bonnie Kays might be one of the most active members of the Franklin Support Group. Not only is Bonnie on the Steering Committee, but she participates regularly in the Peterson Painters, Peterson Crafters and the Women with PD support group. If you are at any Franklin event, you can’t miss Bonnie.
Originally from Buffalo, NY Bonnie and her husband, David, moved to Franklin in 1990 after living in Michigan, Missouri, California and West Virginia. Since moving to Tennessee she has been very active with Williamson County schools and teaching parenting classes at the Williamson County Jail. “I hope they let me back in jail soon!” said Bonnie, since she has not been able to teach since COVID.
In 2019, Bonnie began noticing a tremor and realized she was moving slower. It was then she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Since being diagnosed Bonnie stated, “I feel like PD has taken my energy”. However, one wouldn’t notice since Bonnie keeps herself busy with PFP, teaching, reading, volunteering, and attending youth mission trips with her church (Franklin First United Methodist Church). She has also been know to zip line, parasail, and white water raft.
Bonnie learned about PFP through her doctor and as a member of the same church and friends for years, she was invited by the Torrence’s to attend the Franklin Support Group meetings. The Foundation has not only helped Bonnie learn about Parkinson’s but has provided her an outlet to be with individuals with similar experiences. “PFP has helped me cope with Parkinson’s just by being such a welcoming, supportive community.”
