FISCH 4 Parkinson’s:
From Personal Journey to Community Impact
FISCH 4 Parkinson’s, started in 2024 as a heartfelt response to one family’s journey, founded by Steve and Lisa Fischlin after Steve’s life was transformed by a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2018. For Steve, raised in Elk Grove, California, a community that shaped his values of perseverance, kindness, and service, family and commitment have always been guiding principles. When faced with the uncertainty and challenges of Parkinson’s, Steve chose not to retreat but to turn adversity into action, supported by his wife Lisa and their loved ones. After experiencing tremors on his right side, Steve was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2018. A turning point that introduced uncertainty and new challenges. While such news could have slowed him down, Steve chose a path defined by purpose instead of limitation. Steve started walking daily with co-workers, neighbors and family to fight the disease. He and his family also participated in Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day Sacramento and Revolution. Both events raised funds and awareness for the Parkinson’s community.
Living with Parkinson’s disease presents many challenges. Yet, amid the uncertainty, Steve & Lisa have found purpose, hope, and a sense of community through the support of the Parkinson’s Foundation. Supporting the Parkinson’s Foundation gives them a sense of belonging to a movement that is larger than just them. Whether through fundraising, community events, or online education, they are a part of a network of advocates, researchers, clinicians, and families determined to change the trajectory of Parkinson’s. Their journey with Parkinson’s is ongoing, but with the Parkinson’s Foundation, they are not alone. They are a part of a group dedicated to making a difference.
The Parkinson’s Foundation and UC Davis Health celebrated the opening of the region’s first Parkinson’s Disease Multidisciplinary Clinic in January 2023. The clinic, located in Midtown Sacramento, is part of the UC Davis Center for Movement Disorders and Neuro-restoration, which was recognized in June 2023 as the region’s first Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence. The designation recognizes top expertise in clinical care for patients with Parkinson’s disease. Living with Parkinson’s disease requires significant coordination of care. While there is no cure, medications, treatments, and other therapies can help relieve symptoms. Patients and their families receive care from multiple specialties, which can be difficult and time-consuming to navigate. Steve was able to take advantage of the Sacramento UC Davis Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence in April 2024. In one appointment he was able to see his neurologist, movement specialist, pharmacist and speech therapist.
Steve has a long, dedicated career of 41 years in the retail business. First at Bel Air, and then Raley’s. Steve retired in 2020 to focus on his health and ultimately, to channel his energy into helping others. The diagnosis became more than a personal challenge; it became a catalyst for advocacy. Together, Steve and Lisa created FISCH 4 Parkinson’s, a Steven J Fischlin Charity, as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. They are determined to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease, support those living with it, and fund raise to bring hope and improve quality of life for patients and families. Their mission is rooted in the belief that every person affected deserves to live each day to the fullest.
The charity’s efforts have been its signature fundraising event, the annual FISCH 4 Parkinson’s Golf Tournaments. The inaugural event, held on August 5, 2024, at Valley Hi Country Club in Elk Grove, CA, saw overwhelming support from friends, family, and community members, resulting in a donation of over $26,000 to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Building on this momentum, the second tournament took place at Catta Verdera Country Club on August 11, 2025, raising more than $35,000, thanks to the dedication of family, friends, sponsors and volunteers. Looking forward, the third annual golf tournament is scheduled for August 10, 2026, at Catta Verdera Country Club in Lincoln, CA.
Steve and Lisa reside in El Dorado Hills, where they continue to build a community and focus on health, family and purpose. They are centrally located to their four adult children, and two grandchildren. Family has always been at the heart of their decision, providing them with purpose and direction.
Steve and Lisa’s journey with Parkinson’s is ongoing. They are part of a dedicated community striving to make a lasting impact for those affected by the disease. Inspired by the connections they have made and the difference they have witnessed. They remain committed to growing FISCH 4 Parkinson’s, forming new partnerships, and supporting the Parkinson’s community. Their encouragement extends to others, believing that every contribution, large or small, helps create a brighter future for Parkinson’s patients and their families. They aspire to empower more individuals to take action, advocate for change, and spread the message of hope to the Parkinson’s Community.
