News
On With Life hosts annual Optimism Walk
On With Life is hosting the American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA) Iowa Chapter’s APDA Iowa Optimism Walk on Saturday, October 12.
On With Life, a neurological rehabilitation center in Ankeny, serves more than 150 individuals each year in their Parkinson’s program, a comprehensive outpatient program that addresses the specific needs of those impacted by Parkinson’s disease at all levels of progression. A unique person-centered approach addresses mobility, balance, daily living skills, wellness, functional vision rehabilitation, aging with Parkinson’s, home wellness programs, caregiver education, assistance with return or continuation of work, cognitive evaluation and rehabilitation, support and education regarding Parkinson’s. In addition, community wellness groups are offered, including support groups, cognitive fitness, yoga and boxing.
“On With Life is proud to host this event that draws together and supports individuals with Parkinson’s disease,” said Tammy Miller, On With Life’s director of outpatient services. “We know the importance of community support, and we’re honored to advocate along with them.”
The walk will take place in On With Life’s therapy grounds, a 1.5-acre garden developed on On With Life’s Ankeny campus. The walk will incorporate exercise and wellness opportunities as well. This annual event is part of a nationwide series of Optimism Walks that mobilize and inspire people to step up and help put an end to Parkinson’s disease (PD). There are approximately one million people living with PD in the United States, with more being diagnosed every day.
“When someone you love is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it can be frustrating to not know how to help. But then we see that frustration turn into motivation, determination and purpose when people take part in the Optimism Walk,” said Sydney Petersen, APDA Information & Referral Coordinator, Iowa Chapter. “We hear from participants who feel proud to have made a difference, who have done their part by raising critical funds that will enable APDA to provide more programs and services right here for our local PD community.”
Celebrating their 2nd annual event, the APDA Iowa Optimism Walk is a fundraising event that offers a short walk of up to one mile (distance is optional) and lots of family-friendly activities. People with PD, their friends, family, coworkers and care partners will step up and help put an end to Parkinson’s disease by raising much-needed funds and awareness. The event also offers additional support, educational opportunities, raffles, sponsor activities, music and most importantly, the chance to bond with others who are similarly connected.
To learn more and register for the Iowa Optimism Walk, visit www.apdaparkinson.org/community/iowa/ or call 515-241-6379. For more information on On With Life’s Parkinson’s program, call 515-289-9696 or visit onwithlife.org.
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About On With Life
On With Life, a nationally recognized brain injury, stroke and neuro rehabilitation program based in Ankeny, has served thousands of individuals through their continuum of programs, specializing in brain injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, concussion and complex neuro.
