30 Days of PAR

Photo courtesy Brent Strine Day 20 of 30 This is Brent Strine’s story: I’m 72 years old and live in Medford, Oregon. Several years ago, I noticed my right arm and hand were not functioning normally, and my signature was getting smaller. Writing…

Photo courtesy of Alan Ascher Day 19 of 30 Alan Ascher is a pianist-turned-poet. This is his story: “A Parkinson’s Poem” I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s At the age of sixty-five. I was told — “a pill and exercise”…

Photo courtesy of Valerie Johnson Day 18 of 30 Valerie Johnson has a doctorate in physical therapy (PT) and started Balance Therapy and The Parkinson’s Mind Body Institute, both in Texas. She answered questions from Parkinson’s News Today via email. This is her story: Parkinson’s News Today:…

Photo courtesy of Luis M. Yanez Day 17 of 30 This is Luis M. Yanez’s story: For most of my life, my close friends called me “El Hombre de Acero” — the man of steel. It was not unusual for me to sleep just five…

Photo courtesy of Richard S. Hunter Day 16 of 30 This is Richard S. Hunter’s story: Have you ever walked down a street when suddenly a person with a severe handicap came into view? The individual is far enough away to allow you a moment…

Photo courtesy of Sherri Woodbridge Day 15 of 30 This is Sherri Woodbridge’s story: I used to be afraid of things in the dark, under the bed, in the deep, dank places of the night. I was afraid of things chasing me in my dreams.

Photos courtesy of Jill Steffey Day 14 of 30 This is Jill Steffey’s story: My father was my inspiration for becoming a Rock Steady Boxing coach for people with Parkinson’s. My father died in June 2020 at home because of Parkinson’s. He was the best…

Photo courtesy of Anne Royer Day 13 of 30 This is Anne Royer’s story: Several years ago, we invited our family to a 90th birthday celebration for my mother-in-law, Mary. I had prepared her favorite meal, and I became concerned when…

Photo courtesy of Diane Skylis   Day 12 of 30 This is Diane Skylis’ story: Early on, I heard it said that Parkinson’s is an “expensive” disease. Frequent doctor bills are costly, so I thought any disease would be expensive. Why did that statement strike…

Photo courtesy of Dave Steiner Day 11 of 30 This is Dave Steiner’s story: I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in July 2016. I found Rock Steady Boxing York by accident. New to the area, a neighbor recommended Unique Physique, a small, family-owned fitness…