Parkinson’s Moving Day hosts event to inspire, empower those with the disease

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - “I just think it is the importance of community and the importance of being in it together,” Elizabeth Rich said, whose father has Parkinson’s disease.

People living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers believe that support is what gets them through the tough times.

“It is a progressive disease and we just see that and just take one step at a time,” said Mary Ann Cope, whose Husband has Parkinson’s disease. “Just as a family we say we trust in the Lord every day providing grace for the moment to deal with whatever we’re dealing with in the day.

It’s been one day at a time for the last 17 years for the Cope family.

A pediatric dentist has his family by his side and the entire community is made up of other families impacted by Parkinson’s.

Many in the Parkinson’s community are part of a workout program called “rock steady.”

“It’s extremely important for them to keep moving and exercising. This is a great thing to let other people know that there are programs available,” said Paul Adcock, a supporter of the Parkinson’s Moving Day event.

“The most important thing you can do with Parkinson’s disease is to stay active,” said Randy Voyles.

Voyles, a retired surgeon, was diagnosed ten years ago. The program built to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s has been a part of his journey.

Maintaining strength he says is key.

“Half of the admissions to the hospital occur because people fall, and boxing and agility training can help prevent that,” he said.

Support has been the mainstay that keeps these families going.

Anyone recently diagnosed, the people here say don’t be scared. Although Parkinson’s is a debilitating disease, face it head-on.

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