LIVERPOOL, N.Y. — Rock Steady Boxing, in partnership with Empower Parkinson’s, is recognized for supporting individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease through exercise programs.
Jim Mulherin, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s two years ago, embodies determination in his fight against the disease. He described the program’s invaluable support as a boost to physical and mental well-being.
“You feel good, you feel like you’ve taken some medicine, you can operate and it’s enjoyable, it’s fun,” said Mulherin.
Medical professionals emphasize the therapeutic potential of exercise in managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to motor impairments and a decline in quality of life.
Patrick VanBeveren, executive director and founder of Empower Parkinson’s in Liverpool, emphasized the significance of exercise in mitigating the disease’s progression.
“The medical literature says that exercise and activity is actually the strongest intervention there is for people with Parkinson’s to prevent the deterioration,” said VanBeveren.
VanBeveren, a seasoned physical therapist, founded Empower Parkinson’s to address the need for ongoing rehabilitation beyond insurance coverage and noted the challenge of sustaining exercise regimens independently.
“If you tell somebody you got to do these exercises every day, they’ll do them for a week or two weeks and would gradually fall off.”
Quinn Mulherin, a volunteer at Empower Parkinson’s, asserts that the program extends beyond mere physical exercise. In addition, it cultivates a closely-knit community that constitutes an essential source of encouragement and motivation for all attendees.
At Empower Parkinson’s, participants have found physical strength, belonging and resilience through shared experiences and mutual encouragement, allowing them more control over their bodies and the disease they are fighting.
