How the Movement Fair moved me

“Inspired, determined, dynamic, connected” are words I would use to describe the atmosphere of the recent Movement Fair organized by Parkinson’s Place Las Vegas.

Upon my late arrival, Tim Hague, the winner of The Amazing Race Canada, who just so happens to have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) himself, was already on stage energizing  the room with his motivational story. The remainder of the day consisted of educational demonstrations and expert testimonials on the importance of regular exercise for individuals with PD. 

As an Occupational Therapist, who has solely worked with people diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases for the last four years, it is vital to reiterate how important it is for people to develop an interest in exercise and leisure as a regular part of everyday life. Since very few people actually enjoy exercising, this event allowed people with PD and their caregiver(s) to try a variety of options all in one day in hopes of finding something that interests them.

And try they did!

People of all stages of PD, their caregivers, and people from the community actively participated in yoga, cycling, dancing, boxing, and high-amplitude therapy. To further add to the camaraderie of the day, Robert Cochrane from ComedySportz was able to get the entire room full of people to engage in competitive improv leading to a lot of laughter and teamwork.

It is clear from attending the movement fair that Parkinson’s Place Las Vegas truly cares about delivering quality, evidence-based information, and dynamic experiences to the Parkinson’s community. I want to thank them for allowing me to be a part of this successful day and I know they touched so many lives and will continue to do so. 

Sincerely, 

Shaina Meyer, OTR/L

Clinical Rehab Manager, Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health