How the Success of 'Heated Rivalry' Is Helping Rachel Reid Fight Parkinson's

Success on screen is translating into a lifeline off-screen. Rachel Reid, the mastermind behind the smash-hit hockey romance series Heated Rivalry, revealed that the show's massive popularity paved the way for life-changing medical treatment for her Parkinson's disease.

Rachel Reid Heated Rivalry Parkinson's Diagnosis

Diagnosed in 2023, the 45-year-old author has been candid about the physical toll the disease has taken. In a recent interview with Variety, Reid explained how the condition affects her right side, making it nearly impossible to control a computer mouse or sit for long periods. For an author who has penned six books in the 2020s alone, the inability to type naturally has forced her to explore voice-to-text options.

From CNN to the Clinic: A Lucky Break

Living in a remote area, Reid had been stuck on a five-year waiting list to see a specialist. However, after showrunner Jacob Tierney mentioned her diagnosis on CNN, one of the world's leading Parkinson's experts reached out to her directly. This outreach has already improved her daily life, as the expert provided immediate advice on adjusting her medication to finally allow her to sleep through the night.

Reid remains optimistic, noting that she is in the early stages and encouraged by talk of potential cures. She plans to maintain a busy schedule of events and travel in the coming year, proving that while the disease may change her methods, it won't stop her story.