The singer and fashion designer reveals her diagnosis and the hope brought by a cutting-edge procedure.
Category: Health
In a heartfelt segment on the TODAY show, Rebecca King-Crews, wife of actor Terry Crews, opened up about her long battle with Parkinson's disease and the recent breakthrough treatment that has significantly improved her symptoms. "I feel good," King-Crews said during the April 6, 2026, interview. "I’m able to write my name and my dates, and I’m able to write with my right hand for the first time in probably three years." Her decision to speak publicly about her diagnosis comes after a decade of living with the condition, which she was diagnosed with in 2015 after experiencing symptoms for three years.
Rebecca's initial symptoms began around 2012, starting with numbness in her left foot that progressed to a noticeable limp. At first, her personal trainer noticed that her left arm wasn't swinging as much as her right during workouts. "No disrespect to him, but I asked for referrals, and I got them. And it took three years to diagnose me," she explained, highlighting the frustration many face in obtaining a correct diagnosis.
After years of misdiagnoses and a struggle to find answers, she finally saw a Parkinson's specialist who confirmed her condition. The tremors, which became one of her most debilitating symptoms, made daily tasks like putting on makeup or brushing her teeth incredibly challenging. Yet, throughout her ordeal, King-Crews maintained a positive outlook. "Just keep walking," she said, embodying her determination to continue pursuing her passions, including writing a book and launching a clothing line.
In March 2026, Rebecca underwent a bilateral focused ultrasound procedure, a non-invasive treatment that was recently approved by the FDA. This innovative procedure uses the Exablate Neuro device to deliver ultrasound waves to specific areas of the brain, targeting those involved in movement symptoms associated with Parkinson's. The treatment is considered an adjunct therapy, meaning it does not replace medication but can significantly alleviate symptoms. Rebecca described the immediate benefits she experienced following the procedure, particularly in her right arm, which is now free of tremors.
"I’m still in recovery, and they say it’s about three months of recovery, so as you recover, you see more improvement," she said. A second procedure is planned for September 2026 to address the symptoms on her left side. "Part of the procedure is improved symptoms, so you’re improved on one side (but) not on the other," she explained. "I’m ahead to doing the left side." The couple remains hopeful, with Terry Crews stating, "We feel hopeful. We really feel like we are on the edge of a cure for Parkinson’s."
Rebecca's determination to raise awareness about her condition and the new treatment stems from her desire to help others who may be struggling. She expressed concern about the cost of the procedure, which is not yet covered by insurance, and hopes that by sharing her story, she can make the treatment more accessible for others. "I wanted to potentially make it more available to others because it’s an expensive surgery," she said. "And to give hope to people with Parkinson's, because I believe that we’re going to find the cure."
The couple, who have been married since 1989 and share five children, have faced numerous challenges together, including Rebecca's previous battle with breast cancer in 2020. Terry described watching his wife endure the pain and unpredictability of Parkinson's as incredibly difficult. "It’s been very, very hard to watch her go through what she’s gone through over the last 10 to 12 years. The tremors, the not sleeping, the loss of balance. To watch her write her name for the first time in three years, let me tell you, I don’t know what to say. I’m choked up just thinking about it," he said, praising her resilience.
Rebecca's story is not just one of personal struggle; it's also a message of hope for others living with Parkinson's. By going public with her diagnosis and sharing her experiences, she aims to inspire others to seek treatment and remain hopeful. "I don’t believe in telling my story just so you can feel sorry for me. I really believe that this procedure and others like it are the new frontier of medicine," she stated.
As she continues her recovery, Rebecca remains active, attending acting classes and working on various projects. Her determination to live life fully, even in the face of adversity, resonates with many. "I’m doing 90 percent of what I want to do," she said, a reflection of her unwavering spirit.
With the advancements in treatment and the support from her husband, Rebecca King-Crews' story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of hope in the face of chronic illness. As the couple prepares for the next steps in her treatment, they remain committed to raising awareness and advocating for others affected by Parkinson's disease.