What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects one in 100 people over age 60. It is the second most common brain disease after Alzheimer’s.

Every person diagnosed has their own version of the disease. The cardinal symptoms of PD are tremors, slowness of movement, rigidity, and balance problems. Non-motor symptoms include depression, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, fatigue, and insomnia, among others.

Currently, there is no cure for PD, but a supportive community is one of the best ways to manage the struggles and connect with both patients and caregivers who truly understand the journey.

We’d love to see you at our bi-monthly group meetings, our frequent events and fundraisers, and our daily fitness classes! One of the best ways to impact and slow the progression of PD is through exercise, and Coach John of the Exercise for Life Foundation makes sure we stay in fighting shape.

Below are comments from members who have attended John’s Rock Steady Boxing classes. We hope to see you there soon!

  • "When I was diagnosed with PD, it hit me hard, and I was in a dark place for a few months: fearful, afraid, and worried about my future. After finding RSB, my life and mindset have turned around. John's style is educational, encouraging, adaptable, and inclusive. He doesn’t show us limitations, he shows us possibilities. I have found new friends, a safe haven, laughter and hope!

    -Becky Uptergrove

  • “John helps us with our symptoms of anxiety and digestive problems that come with Parkinson’s disease. He incorporates mindfulness techniques to help us deal with stress, and deep breathing to help when I am at my doctor’s office. This class feels like a support group, I have developed friendships with people who understand what living with PD means. Today, thanks to John Bowers, my RSB coach, I feel strong, I have regained my initiative and most importantly, my joy for life.”

    -Ricarda Cerda

  • "Most importantly, John is a welcoming person. He knows each of our names respects our individual efforts and provides gentle assistance in a subtle manner when needed. I can’t think of a better approach to slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease than John provides with sensitive skill, deep understanding, knowledge, humor and respect.”

    -Annie Van Patten

  • “John is most generous in sharing his knowledge of the forces affecting us: the impact of exercise on our brains, muscles, and the coordination of whatever we do. And he shares his knowledge and skill in a most encouraging way - as a shepherd who leads, rather than as a cowboy who drives."

    -Jack Van Patten

  • "John is motivating, fun, challenging, and caring. Most of all, he enables us to fight back against Parkinson’s disease."

    -Rad and Patty Kirby

  • "John is well known and highly regarded by several neurologists who work with members of our group. Those members have shared that their physicians have commented that their moods and overall mobility and fitness has improved after attending a number of John’s classes."

    -Bruce McKee