I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 12 years ago, at the age of 63. I was told that although I would not die from Parkinson Disease (PD), it would bring many challenges. That’s when I decided to live my best life and fight the disease with everything I had. I needed to know what I was up against. I needed information.
I went to the Parkinson Association of Alberta (PAA) and received helpful information, but I still wanted more. I started looking for information at Parkinson’s organizations worldwide and in remote corners of the Internet. That is when I discovered that exercise might help me live better with PD. At that time, 10 years ago, there was little information; most of it was “could” help versus “would” help.
That changed when I attended the PAA’s Hope Conference and listened to Dr. Becky Farley. She is a neuroscientist and has worked with many PD patients. She believes physical and mental exercises are key to improving life for those with PD. Dr. Farley created a unique program called Parkinson Wellness Recovery! (PWR!) to help people living with PD. PWR! is a blend of gym-style workouts to target PD-affected muscle groups and mental exercises to utilize the brain’s ability to adapt to changes in the body. For example, a right-handed stroke patient learns to do everything lefthanded.
It was incredible news when I heard that the first PWR! Moves Class was scheduled in Calgary! I signed up for that first class and now attend three classes every week. It’s a commitment, and I have never regretted my decision. Not only does it help me in my day-to-day life, but it has also given me the bonus of a unique support group of classmates.
I firmly believe in the benefits of exercise when facing PD, and a lot of information supports its value. There are even apps with PD exercises! I hike, bike, practice yoga, and walk my Blue Heeler “rocket dog” regularly. This has helped me live better with PD and slow its progress.
I am 75 years old, and although I probably cannot hike the West Coast Trail, climb Kilimanjaro, or compete in the Amazing Race Canada as other people with PD have, I am as fit as many people my age who don’t have PD. I am well connected with the PAA, and I enjoy my life. I have a bright future, which gives me hope, and that is what living well with Parkinson’s is all about!
