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Our Story
For 25 years, I have watched my dad live with Parkinson’s disease. Seeing the challenges he faced head on was hard, but witnessing the incredible transformation after his Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery changed everything. His balance improved, his medications were cut in half, and his tremors were mostly gone. It was life-changing, and at that moment, I knew I couldn’t just stand by—I had to do something.
That’s how Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson’s was born, named in honor of my dad, Ray. This nonprofit is our way of spreading awareness, educating others, and advocating for those affected by Parkinson’s. But this isn’t just my fight—our board members are deeply connected to the cause as well. One of them experiences Parkinson’s-like symptoms, while others have family members currently living with the disease and who have passed away from PD. Our ultimate goal is to be a key factor in finding the cure for Parkinson's Disease!
Family photo
From left to right: Rilee Nilsson, Sarah Nilsson, Averie E., Ray Nilsson, Desiree' E., Cannon E., Cody E., Mardi Nilsson & Mary Karman.
About Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's SRLP
Our Mission
Our Programs
Our Mission
At Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson’s, our mission is to educate, advocate, and raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease. Through impactful events and community outreach, we strive to support families, inspire hope, and help fund research that leads to a brighter future for those affected.
Our History
Our Programs
Our Mission
Founded in 2020, Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's SRLP has been serving our communities for over 5 years. Our organization was established in January of 2025 to address the growing need for support for those with Parkinson's Disease and to fund research to ultimately find a cure!
Our Programs
Our Programs
Our Programs
We offer a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of our community. We created a Young on-set Parkinson's YOPD support group and host monthly meetings. We've teamed up with Rock Steady Boxing to sponsor monthly classes for selected individuals with Parkinson's Disease -Starting in 2026.
Meet our Nonprofit board members!
Sarah Nilsson
Sarah Nilsson
Sarah Nilsson
Sarah is the founder and President of Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's honoring her father Ray. With a passion for making a difference, Sarah leads efforts hosting impactful events like the, Fox Trot 5K, SRLP Car Show, Derby Dazzle and more. Her hope is to be the key factor in finding the cure for Parkinson's Disease as well as inspire support and action for those affected by PD.
Ben Mcgarry
Sarah Nilsson
Sarah Nilsson
Ben is the Vice President of SRLP, dedicated to the organization's mission of raising awareness and funding for Parkinson's research. With strong leadership skills and a heart for service, Ben works alongside the president to plan our fundraising events. His commitment to supporting the PD community and creating meaningful connections drives the org. forward.
Trent Smith
Sarah Nilsson
Trent Smith
Trent is a dedicated director bringing his enthusiasm and commitment to advancing the organization's mission. As a key contributor, Trent actively supports planning and executing all events. He has been involved with the nonprofit volunteering for over four years prior to being a board member. His drive has been a huge factor in the succ
Trent is a dedicated director bringing his enthusiasm and commitment to advancing the organization's mission. As a key contributor, Trent actively supports planning and executing all events. He has been involved with the nonprofit volunteering for over four years prior to being a board member. His drive has been a huge factor in the success of all the nonprofit's events and initiatives. We are beyond grateful for Trent and his not only helpful but kind spirit!
Caira Mbelu
Sarah Nilsson
Trent Smith
Caira contributes to planning events, strategizing initiatives, and engaging with the community. She is a dedicated individual who is passionate about making a difference in the world. From our volunteers to our board members, everyone at Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's SRLP is committed to our mission and the community we serve.
Brian Winters
Brittney Thomas
Brittney Thomas
Brian serves as the treasurer of SRLP, overseeing the organization's financial operations with precision and care. With a strong commitment to transparency and accountability, Brian ensures every dollar raised through events is maximized to support Parkinson's research, education, and awareness efforts. His expertise and passion play a v
Brian serves as the treasurer of SRLP, overseeing the organization's financial operations with precision and care. With a strong commitment to transparency and accountability, Brian ensures every dollar raised through events is maximized to support Parkinson's research, education, and awareness efforts. His expertise and passion play a vital role in driving the organization's mission to bring hope.
Brittney Thomas
Brittney Thomas
Brittney Thomas
Brittney is a valued board member and is dedicated to supporting the mission of Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's.With a passion for service and a collaborative spirit, she helps plan and execute key initiatives, including fundraising and outreach efforts. She is in charge of all of our volunteers, helping each event run smoothly. Her
Brittney is a valued board member and is dedicated to supporting the mission of Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's.With a passion for service and a collaborative spirit, she helps plan and execute key initiatives, including fundraising and outreach efforts. She is in charge of all of our volunteers, helping each event run smoothly. Her commitment to making a meaningful impact ensures the organization will continue to bring resources to those affected by PD.
Alex Kim
Brittney Thomas
Eric Brosch
Alex Kim is a passionate advocate for Parkinson’s awareness, inspired by a personal connection to PD. His generosity has played a crucial role in advancing Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson’s’ mission. His leadership helps fund critical research, provide resources for those affected, and expand community outreach. With a deep commitment
Alex Kim is a passionate advocate for Parkinson’s awareness, inspired by a personal connection to PD. His generosity has played a crucial role in advancing Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson’s’ mission. His leadership helps fund critical research, provide resources for those affected, and expand community outreach. With a deep commitment to making a difference, Alex brings valuable expertise and dedication to the board.
Eric Brosch
Brittney Thomas
Eric Brosch
Eric Brosch brings a deep personal connection and unwavering dedication to Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's. Having Parkinson's-like symptoms himself, he understands firsthand the challenges those affected by the disease experience. His passion for advocacy and support drives him to help raise awareness, expand resources, and further
Eric Brosch brings a deep personal connection and unwavering dedication to Shine a RAY of Light on Parkinson's. Having Parkinson's-like symptoms himself, he understands firsthand the challenges those affected by the disease experience. His passion for advocacy and support drives him to help raise awareness, expand resources, and further the mission of our nonprofit. Eric is committed to making a difference.