Sue J. Goldie is an American physician, scientist, and internationally recognized public health leader. She holds the Roger Irving Lee Professorship of Public Health at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and is also a professor at Harvard Medical School. Her work in decision science and global health—particularly in cancer prevention, infectious disease, and maternal health—has influenced policies worldwide. She was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship for her innovative contributions. 

Goldie was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2021 and kept her diagnosis private for nearly four years before publicly sharing her story. Her journey garnered widespread attention after a 2025 New York Times profile detailed her daily life, work, intense triathlon training, and deeply personal reflections, as captured in video diaries. Despite living with the progressive neurological condition, she has continued to compete in long-distance triathlons—including multiple Ironman and half-Ironman events—highlighting the importance of movement in living with Parkinson’s.  

Goldie’s story highlights how people often struggle with denial, stigma, and worries about their careers while adjusting to a chronic illness. In sharing her story, she aims to expand understanding beyond tremors and stiffness—showing the emotional uncertainty and identity issues many patients encounter. She also hopes to raise awareness regarding the benefits of physical activity for people with Parkinson’s, and emphasize how support networks help individuals live well with a progressive disease and reduce feelings of isolation. 

Goldie now aims to give a voice to others navigating life after diagnosis and to inspire broader discussions about resilience and meaning. She wants people to see Parkinson’s not just as a neurological disorder, but as a profoundly human experience—shaped by identity, adaptation, movement, and community.