CINCINNATI (WKRC) — April marks Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and Parkinson Community Fitness in Blue Ash is celebrating by offering a special program for individuals facing movement challenges.
This program, designed for people with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, aims to create a supportive space for participants. Moira Grainger, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease years ago, shared how the fitness program has transformed her life. “I walked in here and knew I belonged. I felt this was going to be good for me, and it has been ever since,” Grainger said.
To address the difficulties Parkinson’s causes with both movement and speech, Grainger started a new initiative in April. The program allows participants to work out together, share support, or even write notes to each other when speaking becomes difficult. “For us, this is an opportunity to celebrate each other,” Grainger explained.
Lisa Coors, co-founder of Parkinson Community Fitness, highlighted the importance of support throughout the Parkinson’s journey. “It’s about accepting people who may look different, have memory issues, unusual facial expressions, or tremors. It’s about acceptance,” Coors said.
Neenah Dorn, a producer at Local 12, joined the workout and experienced the group’s welcoming atmosphere. “Sometimes, going to a gym can make you feel self-conscious, but here, I had five or six people I could talk to. I could relate to them and really enjoy the workout,” Dorn said.
The program invites people with movement disorders to join, offering both camaraderie and encouragement. “It’s hard, but it’s fun. In class, we support and challenge each other to do our best,” Grainger said.
