Man w. Parkinson’s starts Pacific Crest Trails hike in San Diego County’ Campo [Video]

CAMPO, Calif — Rob Cook has been preparing for years to hike the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,600-mile journey stretching from Mexico to Canada. This Sunday, the 63-year-old Sacramento man will take his first steps on the trail, facing a challenge he never anticipated.

In 2022, Cook was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Rather than abandoning his dream, the diagnosis strengthened his resolve.

“I’ve been pretty matter of fact about it,” Cook said. “It presents some challenges, but I’m not interested in that. I want to live my life.”

Cook’s doctors support his ambitious journey. Medical studies have shown that high-intensity exercise can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

An avid hiker who has climbed Yosemite’s Half Dome six times, Cook meticulously planned for the PCT’s various challenges — snow, rain, extreme temperatures — and adjusted his preparations …