“How was I going to tell my husband, kids, grandkids and parents? What would I tell them?”

Rather than wait for Parkinson’s to define what came next, Carole began learning everything she could. She read websites and blogs, watched videos, and sought out information about how to live well with Parkinson’s. Being proactive became important to her.

“The thought of sitting around and waiting for the symptoms to arrive just wasn’t an option for me.”

Carole also made the decision to speak publicly about her diagnosis. She knew Parkinson’s could be isolating, and she hoped that sharing her experience might help reduce stigma and encourage others to reach out for support.

Finding PWP

Carole knew about Parkinson Wellness Projects, but she wasn’t initially ready to join a Parkinson’s program. That changed when an invitation to learn more brought her through PWP’s doors. She remembers arriving without knowing quite what to expect.

“I expected a quiet, somber place and found anything but! I could hear the music and laughter as I headed upstairs.”

She watched a class and saw people at different ages and stages of Parkinson’s exercising, connecting, and supporting one another. Her hesitation began to disappear. She left not only agreeing to serve on PWP’s Board, but also signing up for classes herself.

Movement Became Part of Her Life

Today, exercise is a priority in Carole’s week. She participates in four PWP classes each week, two boxing and two fitness classes and walks twice a day, averaging about 10 kilometers.That would once have surprised her. Before her diagnosis, Carole says she wasn't a regular gym-goer. Now, she jokes that she is probably more fit than she was before Parkinson’s.

She credits the structure of her routine, encouragement from other participants, and PWP instructors with helping her stay committed. When she misses classes, she notices the difference in her stiffness, energy and productivity. She says the classes have made a difference to both her physical and mental well-being.

But what Carole discovered at PWP extends well beyond exercise.

A Community That Understands

Carole has a loving network of family and friends, but she says connecting with other people who live with Parkinson’s provides a different kind of support.

“The understanding, common concerns, being able to talk about our challenges without long explanations, sharing ideas and solutions, and sometimes tears and laughter is a gift I didn’t expect but discovered through PWP.”

Her Friday boxing class is one example.

The group began with people who didn't know one another, connecting through a weekly Zoom class. A care partner later organized a monthly coffee gathering. Those gatherings grew into friendships.

Today, members check in on one another, share challenges, celebrate achievements and encourage each other to keep going. Carole says she can hardly imagine a month without their get-together.

That sense of connection has become an important part of how she approaches life with Parkinson’s.

As Carole has said:

“Human connection, knowing you are not alone, and feeling the amazing support of others, is as critical in my life as my medication.” World Parkinson's Congress speech

Living Well, Together

Parkinson’s wasn't part of the retirement Carole imagined. There are difficult days, and she continues to adapt as things change. But she focuses on what she can do: staying active, remaining connected, asking for help when she needs it, laughing, spending time with the people she loves, and continuing to contribute to her community.

For someone considering supporting Parkinson Wellness Projects, Carole has a simple message:

“If you want to make a real difference with your donation, PWP, a small but mighty non-profit, is filled with hope, laughter, determination, and support!”

Help more people living with Parkinson’s find movement, connection and community.

Until December 15, every gift to Parkinson Wellness Projects will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $75,000.

[DOUBLE MY IMPACT]