Eric AquinoEric Aquino is a first-generation American born to parents who emigrated from the Dominican Republic. He grew up in Jersey City in a large, close-knit family. From a young age, Eric was drawn to helping others, often being called upon to assist and tanslate for family members.After initially wanting to become a lawyer, Eric earned a bachelor's degree in Information Technology, but he remained committed to helping people. In 2002, he moved to Pennsylvania, and at a friend's suggestion he began volunteering as an EMT. This experience ignited Eric's passion, and he knew he wanted to pursue a career in emergency services.While working in the ER at Easton Hospital, Eric met a charge nurse who was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2007, Eric wanted to show his support. He reconnected with a high school friend and signed up for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk in New York in 2009. Eric continued participating in the walk for the next nine years, raising $1,800 annually.In 2018, at age 40, Eric was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Determined to help others facing the same challenges, he founded the Gray Strong Foundation that fall. Over the next six years, Eric started three support groups, hosted three symposiums, presented a poster at the World Parkinson's Congress in Barcelona, and participated on panels at various symposiums--all with the mission of helping people with Parkinson's move forward with their lives. Read More Read Less