What is “Parkinson’s in Balance” and who is Allison?
“Parkinson’s in Balance” was a program I launched in 2010 with the mission to raise awareness and support to those challenged by Parkinson’s disease in my community. Now that two years has passed, I have had the honor to meet many Parkies and their families. The one thing they all had in common was needing connection to someone who could understand. This website is a work in progress, a way to follow me through my advocacy work and life in general. I would like the site to be interactive, so feel free to leave any comments or feedback! Enjoy!
~Allison (The Perky Parkie)
Who is Allison?
You know when you are meeting someone new, they always ask, “What do you do?”. A flash of your life goes through your mind as you slightly begin to panic. How do you define yourself in 30 words or less? Then,without a pause, you spout our the most superhero, ‘cliff notes’ version of yourself. We all do it. But what really defines us, cannot be summarized into a paragraph. My life cannot be categorized into comfortable, clean boxes. So what do I do?
My name is Allison. I am a thirty-something girl who has been a medical anomaly since age 13. I wanted to help people, to really make a difference. So I went to graduate school to become a therapist and during my second year, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The only thing that made sense to me was to give back. I launched a program, “Parkinson’s in Balance” in 2010 with the drive to help in my community. My program offers fitness classes, support groups and events. You can also follow my advocacy work through my blog. Don’t underestimate the power of sharing what you do, you might just give inspiration to someone in need of a boost. -Allison
P.S. For those of you that need clean boxes, here is my formal introduction… About me.
17 Responses to “What is “Parkinson’s in Balance” and who is Allison?”
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I live here in Cincinnati. I was diagnosed with Parkinsons 7 months ago.
My sister Judy Amendola And her husband Rich visited one of your sessions and were quite impressed. Rich has a balance problem and will be attending one of your classes for help.
Regards,
Marvin Kramer
Very cool Marvin! Glad Judy and Rich enjoyed the class! Come visit California and come to join us! Consider it a Parkie Vacation! Thanks for the comment!
Allison, I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your Saturday workout. It was a nice blend of physical and mental exercise. I don’t know of another program that is similar (do you?). This program should be spread across the country, and quick. Again, thanks for all that you do.
Well thank you Pete! I have not found a smilier program in my area, there are some out of state, but that is defiantly my goal to reach people all over the country. Guess you and I need to have coffee!
Allison-You are one of the most caring people in the world. The time you give to others is amazing. I feel so blessed just to know you. To be able to bring Chuck to your free exercise class at Crunch on Saturdays is a highlight of our week! Even though Chuck can barely walk or talk most days he perks up around the Perky Parkie! We’re especially grateful for the special attention Jason always gives him in class. You are an inspiration to so many people! Love, Kathy and Chuck Andrews
Kathy and Chuck,
You are so sweet! Thank you for sharing, but don’t inflate my head too much, I might not be able to make it through the door! See you Saturday!
I look forward each month to seeing our group! Thank you, Allison for having such a big heart and good sense of humor. We all need to enjoy the gift of each others company. Wish I lived closer to join the exercise programs. Think how late I would be driving to get that far! Again much appreciation to our Brea group for their friendship and open support…..love you all!
We have a great Brea group and I also look forward to seeing everyone! Thank you for your sweet comment!
Parkinsons in balance is such a great program. My parkie husband looks forward to it every week. Thanks so much Allison
Thank you Diane! You two are a joy to have in class! So much love between you guys. See you soon!
Parkinson In Balance is a great program which seems to tirelessly continue to change as needed and grow. Keep up the good work!
Thank you for your kind words Sharon!
Official Wine of the Parkinson’s Team- Indian Peak Vineyards supports Parkie research efforts and maybe we should support them. http://indianpeakvineyards.net/
Sounds delicious! I never knew they have an official wine. Thanks for sharing!
I heard there is a synergy with Parkinson’s and 23 & Me. Do you have info on your site regarding that program? I didn’t see the logo or other reference. Otherwise, lots of great content!
You are one step ahead of me JP! 23andMe is a great program that every Parkie should get involved in. And hey! It’s free! Here is the page you are looking for…..now its time to spit!
Thank you! I just have realized that I am sitting in front of an amazing tool to reach people all over the world!