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In just a few months, I will mark my 18th anniversary since being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. I was 40 years old at the time, and that day is forever etched in my memory—it was the moment that changed my life in ways I never anticipated. It's hard to believe how quickly these 18 years have passed. Yet, at the same time, I can't imagine life without Parkinson's. Along the way, I've encountered new people, gained invaluable knowledge, embraced fresh adventures, and cultivated new dreams, perspectives, and goals.

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I refuse to let Parkinson’s define me. Through a few holistic lifestyle changes, I’ve empowered myself to take control of the progression of this disease. I’ve chosen to meet this challenge head-on.

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From the moment I was diagnosed, I began my fight against Parkinson’s. I learned about a family member of one of my friends who was involved in a trial on exercise and Parkinson’s in Canada. Intrigued, I traveled there, met with him, and worked alongside his group. I immersed myself in research, seeking out articles and connecting with anyone who could teach me about this disease. Driven by my desire to take action, I hired a personal trainer to push my body as hard as it could go. Despite the shaking and struggles, I kept pushing—and with each day, I felt stronger, more energetic, and more in control. That "electricity" in my body, a byproduct of Parkinson's, was released through exercise, and for the first time in a long while, I began to feel more "normal." My doctor took notice of the improvements and said, "Keep doing what you're doing, it's working." And so, I did. Eighteen years later, here I am.

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As an educator living with Parkinson's, it has become my mission to help others with the disease achieve their best health. Being an educator for twenty-nine years in public schools, as well as a youth athletic coach for various teams, I was naturally drawn toward teaching people with PD  how to live healthier. The program I developed with my trainer became the foundation of my work, and I fine-tuned it to share with others. I began by working out with a couple of Parkinson's friends, and we all felt better. It became clear to me that I had to share this success with the wider Parkinson's community.

 

That’s when I launched “Beat Parkinson’s Today,” an exercise program specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s.

 

Through trial and error, I’ve honed this program to meet the unique needs of Parkinson's symptoms. Participants in our Beat PD classes have seen remarkable improvements, both physically and emotionally. Beat PD Today empowers individuals to take control of their health through classes led by certified trainers, offering beginner, and advanced levels for people with Parkinson’s of all ages. It's amazing to see how taking control of their health, alongside others in the same journey, gives them hope—and it makes the process enjoyable and rewarding. 

 

Since starting this non profit, we have eleven locations across Connecticut and four in North Carolina. Our classess also have grown to a virtual platform with classes offered 7 days a week with people all over the world cecoming members and paricipating in Beat PD classes. Our partnership with Yale in a research trial has given us international exposure for having scientific data showing our curriculum works. 

 

This is where my focus lies: on my friends, family, and the larger Parkinson's community. I will not let Parkinson’s beat me. I’m driven by the belief that I can make a meaningful difference in the progression of this disease. I've chosen to face this challenge with courage and determination, and I am eager to share my approach with others. The people in my classes inspire me to keep working hard, and together, we inspire one another. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experience with others and help so many people live strong with this devastating disease.

 

When I was diagnosed in 2007, I had no idea what the future held for me. I was scared and angry. Today, my mindset is one of determination and optimism. Exercise has become my medicine, and my mission is to share my story with as many people living with Parkinson’s as possible, helping them live their best lives.

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I will beat this. I will live a full life. 

Think strong, Move strong, Be Strong!​​​​

-Michelle