By Sophia Ling
The Indiana Parkinson Foundation is hosting a Lunch and Learn to provide information on managing Parkinson’s disease and the CLIMB program at noon Sept. 22 at The Barrington, 1335 S. Guilford Rd. in Carmel.
The CLIMB focuses on functional physical exercises and activities to re-educate muscles that are affected by Parkinson’s. Because the disease affects everyone differently, the CLIMB classes tailor exercises to each individual, making sure there is a modification available for everyone.
“Keeping mobile is a big deal. (Patients) can get so rigid, but they also have to know limitations. (The CLIMB was created) to improve quality of life and give patients a little back from what was stolen,” said Addie Cunningham, CLIMB program director.
At the Lunch and Learn, Dr. Stuart Isaacson, director of the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center of Boca Raton, will speak about how to manage the disease when patients are not on medication.
The name for CLIMB was inspired by Miley Cyrus’s song “The Climb,” which recognizes the hardships of life and the strength it takes to overcome them.
“It’s always going to be an uphill battle,” Cunningham said. “Parkinson’s is a progressive disease that takes away different parts of your life.”
Cunningham said additional educational events and support groups are available for patients who have Parkinson’s.
The Indiana Parkinson Foundation was founded in 2009 by Cunningham and her family after her father, Don Waterman, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The goal of the Indiana Parkinson Foundation is to help families bridge the gap between patients and family, reminding them that they are not alone and will always have people standing alongside them, Cunningham said.
The lunch and learn is free, and lunch is provided. Space is limited, so RSVP by calling 317-753-8323 or emailing [email protected].