Finding Strength, Finding Community
Six years ago, Jerry Burkett went to the doctor for tremors in his hands and received the life-changing diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Jerry didn’t know anyone who had Parkinson’s and had no frame of reference for what his life would look like long term. Like many others, he turned to the internet, where he saw worst-case scenarios and symptoms.
Jerry’s treatment plan led him to the Rock Steady Boxing class at Firelands Health. Stepping into the gym, he discovered a community – a shared struggle, a collective resilience. He met individuals who had been navigating Parkinson’s for 15 years, and others, like himself, newly diagnosed. They exchanged stories, treatment tips, and, most importantly, hope. Jerry realized his future wasn’t defined by the disease but by his response to it.
When Jerry was first diagnosed, he struggled with tremors in his hands and feet and was very slow moving. He began medication and physical therapy and regularly attended Rock Steady Boxing. The program’s unique approach, incorporating dual-tasking, directly targets the cognitive challenges of Parkinson’s. Dual-tasking requires participants to perform physical exercises while engaging in cognitive challenges. The boxing portion of the class pulls together all their training as they think quickly to recall the sequences the physical therapist calls out while actively dodging and returning punches.
Jerry’s transformation is remarkable. On his first day at Rock Steady Boxing, he stood in the back, relying on the wall for balance. Now, he weaves confidently around the room, delivering sharp, rapid punches. Once a newly diagnosed person looking for support, he can now offer guidance to those who join the class.
“This class has been a lifesaver,” said Jerry. “I always have to talk myself into going, but I’m always glad I went.” He describes the daily struggle of Parkinson’s as a weight, a constant burden that grows heavier as the day progresses. But at Rock Steady Boxing, that weight is lifted. “I’m less stiff, less slow. It gives me more productive hours in the day.”
While medication, diet and other forms of exercise play a vital role in managing Parkinson’s, Jerry emphasizes that Rock Steady Boxing is a blessing “that puts me over the top.”
The group ends the class chanting, “We are rock steady!”
Find support
For more information or to join Rock Steady Boxing or one of our individual Parkinson’s therapy programs such as LSVT BIG, SPEAK OUT!, and The LOUD Crowd, call 419-557-7040.
