Winning

Winning isn't everything. But when you DO win, it can be pretty uplifting. I participated in a six-week exercise competition. There were teams from lots of companies such as Paycor and P & G, as well as the UC Gardner Center and individual-led teams. I joined the team called Parkinsons Power, which my friend and personal trainer established for anyone in the Parkinson's community. In addition to me, there were two other PWPs, 4 personal trainers and a few others. The team with the highest average number of hours (weighted by intensity) of exercise was the winner -- and yes, we won! Amazing! We can do anything if we really put our minds to it.

It was interesting to note how motivating it was knowing that my exercise hours would be chalked up to benefit my team. Lesson learned . . .

Listening at last

I have been ranting about Parkinson's and exercise for quite a while now. And at least in part because this is a difficult population to motivate, I have occasionally felt like I am trying to encourage a brick wall. Well, this week a local television news crew filmed our dance class and interviewed me. The piece that appeared later on their broadcast spoke of the importance of exercise and the special value of dance for those with PD. Yessssss! The pearls of wisdom I am quoted as saying: "Get off of your couch and come dance with us!"