"Sailing is doing something to my brain, my equilibrium," he said. "It does affect me neurologically." Researchers hope to determine exactly what those changes look like and whether they offer therapeutic value for people with Parkinson's.

Trial By Fire Off Ireland

Wilken flew to Wicklow, Ireland, before joining Neptune and a largely unfamiliar crew for a passage that ended in Le Bono, France, where the vessel is based. The crew includes veteran offshore sailors, Raffray, and (by chance) two neurologists. “We were covered," Wilken said.

The voyage represents a major leap beyond Wilken's previous sailing experience. Most of his sailing has taken place on San Francisco Bay, widely regarded as one of the world's most challenging sailing venues. His offshore résumé, however, consists primarily of a two-week catamaran charter in Greece in the very challenging Cyclade islands. But he reveled in the experience.

He admits he worries about motion sickness, fatigue, cold weather, disrupted sleep schedules, and how Parkinson's symptoms might respond to the stresses of offshore racing. "It's was a trial by fire," he said.

Still, he brought his perspective shaped by experience. He once lived in Minnesota, where winter temperatures could plunge to 56 degrees below zero. An offshore race requires rotating watches that often leave sailors working through exhaustion, cold, and rough weather. Wilken remained confident. "How can you feel any safer than sailing with people who have sailed around the world?" he said. Even though seasickness hit him hard he had full support of the crew. "It was an epic journey."

Chasing Answers Across The Atlantic

Supporters were able to track Wilken's progress online as the race unfolded. The same will be true for Fastnet and Ocean Globe.

For Wilken, however, the most important destination may not be the finish line. It may be the data waiting each time he returns.

If the results reveal measurable benefits, Neptune may become more than a symbol of adventure or resilience. It may help chart a new course for understanding how people can live more fully with Parkinson's disease.

Observers will be able to track Wilken's path on share.garmin.com/Serenityfalcon.

Related:

Upcoming new article about Buck's wife, Jennifer, opening a shop in St Helena that will benefit Parkinson's research. 

A Sailor’s Global Race With Parkinson’s Inspires First Bay Area Regatta

Pedaling Against Parkinson's A Personal Fight In Bay Area

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