A Texas-based woman, Reka Janisse, has garnered attention online for her courage and resilience in sharing her makeup routine while living with Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease, a condition that causes tremors. Janisse, a 42-year-old mother of three, received her diagnosis in April 2022, which prompted her to go public on Instagram in November 2023. In an effort to create a sense of community and support for others facing similar challenges, she started sharing her journey on social media, including a viral TikTok video showcasing her makeup routine despite experiencing tremors as a symptom of the disease.
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Janisse’s TikTok video, posted on July 21, depicts her applying makeup while battling tremors, set to the background of Taylor Swift’s song “The One.” The video resonated with viewers, amassing nearly 400,000 views. Janisse’s caption reflected her determination and positivity in tackling her morning routine: “POV: It’s Monday morning and I’m getting ready with Parkinson’s 💄💪 The tremors? Kicking. The stress? High,” she wrote, showcasing her resilience and humour in the face of challenges.
Following her diagnosis, Janisse made significant lifestyle changes to focus on her health and well-being. She embraced a fitness regimen that includes daily workouts at 4 a.m., preparing her three children for school, and managing her job responsibilities. Despite the difficulties posed by tremors, she finds solace in maintaining her makeup routine as a way to feel good mentally and emotionally. Janisse acknowledges the importance of self-care and looking good as part of her journey towards acceptance and empowerment.
Through her social media platforms, Janisse has candidly shared her Parkinson’s journey, including the ups and downs of her experience. She admitted to going through various stages of grief before reaching acceptance and deciding to share her story publicly. By creating an Instagram account under the handle ‘pd.family’ and openly discussing her condition, Janisse aims to raise awareness and provide support to others living with Parkinson’s Disease, especially those who may not have a strong support system in place.
Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease, which affects individuals below the age of 50, has posed unique challenges for Janisse, who was diagnosed at 39. While most cases of Parkinson’s develop in individuals over 50, young-onset cases like Janisse’s are relatively rare. Despite ongoing struggles with medication efficacy and symptom management, Janisse has found strength and support from her employer, family, and friends. Her social media following of nearly 30,000 on Instagram and TikTok is a testament to the impact of her story and the connection she has formed with others facing similar battles.
In sharing her journey with Parkinson’s Disease, Janisse hopes to inspire and empower others to seek help, advocate for themselves, and find community amidst their struggles. Her decision to embrace vulnerability and share the “good, bad, and ugly” of her experience serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating similar challenges. Janisse’s story highlights the power of resilience, self-care, and support in facing chronic health conditions and embracing life with courage and determination.