Rachel Reid Discusses Success of TV Adaptation and Parkinson's Support

Rachel Reid Receives Parkinson's Support Thanks to Successful TV Adaptation

Author of the novel "Heated Rivalry," Rachel Reid, has revealed that the success of the adaptation of her work has led to her receiving specialized assistance for the Parkinson's disease she suffers from. At 45 years old, Reid was diagnosed with this condition in the summer of 2023, coinciding with her being approached for the adaptation of her book series.

The series "Heated Rivalry" centers on a forbidden relationship between two ice hockey players and has become one of the most discussed TV shows in recent weeks. In an interview, the Canadian author explained that a Parkinson's expert reached out to her after learning about her diagnosis during a promotional interview for the series. Reid mentioned that her appointment with the neurologist could “change things for me, as I am not receiving the treatment I should be getting.”

Rachel Reid published the first book in the "Game Changers" series in 2018, followed by five more volumes. The TV adaptation has sparked significant interest, set to launch in North America at the end of November. The show, adapted and directed by Jacob Tierney, will premiere in the UK on January 10th on Sky and the streaming service Now.

Reid noted that an "amazing thing" emerged from the attention surrounding the series. "Jacob was on CNN a few weeks ago, and for some reason, the interviewer asked him about my diagnosis. I found it a bit strange, but the next day, one of the world's top Parkinson's experts contacted me and asked if he could help," she stated.

Reid explained the challenges she faces due to the disease: "It's hard for me to write because I can barely control a mouse. I can't type very much, and sitting in a chair is exhausting. I need to find new ways to write." The series follows the rivalry between hockey players Shane and Ilya, who, despite their ambition, begin a secret relationship.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition that worsens over time, characterized by insufficient dopamine levels in the brain, leading to tremors, slow movements, and muscle rigidity.