BETTENDORF, Iowa — Exercise is a great form of medication for those who struggle with Parkinson's disease. Rock Steady Boxing is an international program with over 800 affiliates that aims to provide a fun way to help improve the lives of those fighting the disease.
Anne Molyneaux is a volunteer coach for the local program that is put on through Genesis at the TBK Sports Complex in Bettendorf, Iowa.
“People with Parkinson’s need to move and they certainly make them move, and I think this will be a great way to help grow their program," said Molyneaux.
With how the program has benefitted the community, Molyneaux nominated Danielle Roberts for the Pay It Forward award, sponsored by Ascentra Credit Union.
Roberts helped bring the program back here to the Quad Cities, since there weren'tmany resources like this locally.
“Exercise is medicine for them so there was no other programs around here for that. So when we found it five years ago then we just knew we had to bring it back here," said Roberts.
The program offers classes three times a week, using boxing and other exercises to help delay the symptoms of Parkinson's.
“If you think about the things that a boxer might need to work on. They need to work on their agility, they need to work on their speed, they need to work on their balance. Those kinds of things are all things that people with Parkinson's need to work on as well," said Roberts.
Not only does the class bring benefits physically, but it also brings a sense of community to be with others who understand those struggles.
“Working with each other and they’ve all become really good friends. They do stuff outside of class and things too. So it’s kind of a support group within an exercise class as well," said Roberts.
If you are interested in learning more about the program, you can visit their website or Facebook page.
Do you know someone that goes above and beyond for his or her community? News 8 and Ascentra Credit Union would like to help you Pay it Forward to them. Click here to nominate someone you know.
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