January 1, 2008 - Chicago, USA: Internationally known Singer/Songwriter, Rich Rozek (WAR CRY.US) has announced that he has started a 501 (c) 3, non-for-profit group called PFORCE! to raise funds and increase awareness, support, and research for Parkinson’s Disease. Rich is the singer for the group, War Cry.US. He was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease seven years ago. Thanks to his positive attitude, his doctor, plus the prescriptions he takes, he can still fronts his band - and quite well indeed!
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder that kills brain cells that produce a chemical that controls your muscles. As the disease progresses, there could be tremors, rigidity of the muscles, slow movement, and a loss of balance. Usually it strikes those much later in life, but now doctors are finding more younger and middle-age people getting PD.
With all the media coverage WAR CRY.US is getting due to the release of their current CD, Rich felt that announcing the birth of PFORCE could only help the cause. "So why not make the announcement and start the fight against this dreaded disease!" Rich said.
When asked how he feels, Rich stated, "I feel very good. I have great doctors watching over me, and my doctor has commented that singing and performing will help slow the progression down." He added, "I'm very confident that PFORCE can help many people stricken with PD, in the Chicago and Northwest Indiana area's."
Rich also added, "The best thing for me is doing this CD. My singing voice is stronger than ever. They tell me I’m in the second stage. I feel lucky to have a disease somewhat controllable. I really respect Michael J. Fox for bringing this terrible disease out into the public, which is why we're donating a good portion to his organization." Rich said.
Rich has been dealing with the effects of PD for over two years. "It feels good to get out in the public and let others know that I have PD - not to cry about it, but to be a positive example. I know there will be a cure… right now for me that cure is singing and playing hard music again with WAR CRY.US!" Rich said. The band are currently working on their next release, due out in 2008.
When asked why he called his organization PFORCE!? Rich replied, "It stands for Parkinson’s Foundation of Out-Reach, Care and Encouragement!" he explained. "I just wanted to put something together that motivated a person to try harder and not just give up. We want more face-to-face, one-on-one interaction. Instead of giving our profits for only research, we would like to go see the person and just bring them what they need - because there are so many that need that relief now!" Rich said.
Rich Rozek is available for appearances and motivational speaking engagements. Interested? E-mail us at: pdtalklive@aol.com.
