Oregon Parkinson's Warriors Foundation

06/01/2026

From Friday, May 22 through Wednesday, May 27, I had the incredible opportunity to attend and volunteer at the World Parkinson Congress in Phoenix — a global gathering bringing together researchers, neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, exercise professionals, advocates, care partners, and people living with Parkinson’s from all over the world.
What really struck me was seeing the amount of Parkinson’s research actively taking place right now. I know many people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners sometimes wonder if enough is being done because there is still no cure. What I saw was a tremendous amount of research, collaboration, and dedication focused on better understanding Parkinson’s and improving quality of life for those living with it.

I was especially encouraged by the number of young researchers and students entering the field. The research poster sessions were filled with people asking questions, sharing ideas, and working together to advance our understanding of Parkinson’s. It was inspiring to see so many bright minds dedicating their work to this disease.

The Congress offered opportunities to learn from researchers, clinicians, exercise professionals, advocates, care partners, and people living with Parkinson’s through presentations, workshops, discussions, and opportunities for people living with Parkinson’s to share their stories, art, music, and experiences.

I attended sessions focused on exercise, neuroplasticity, brain chemistry, fall prevention, boxing, dance, drumming, rhythm, and movement — all reinforcing something we strongly believe at Warriors Gym: exercise is one of the most powerful tools we currently have for living well with Parkinson’s.

As I sat through these sessions, I couldn't help but think about our Warriors. Again and again, I heard about the importance of connection, interaction, and community. Being around people who understand the fight, moving together, laughing together, and supporting one another truly affects the brain in positive ways.

It reminded me that what we are building at Warriors Gym is so much more than exercise classes. It is connection, support, understanding, and hope.

The next World Parkinson's Congress in 2029 in Quebec City, Canada. Will you come with me?

05/30/2026

https://youtu.be/r2xZeu0UZX4?si=dk1iKaX7znuCq_QY
This is the WPC experience

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

05/30/2026

https://youtu.be/OiazkWESnkI?si=rg3LQSeXZoPUFFET

Eugene Warriors, do you remember this song?

"You Are Not Alone," written by Rich Gootee from the Nashville Rock Steady Boxing community, was performed by the WPC Choir at the opening ceremony of the World Parkinson’s Congress.

As I listened, I couldn't help but think of all of you.

One of the greatest gifts of this Parkinson’s community is the reminder that none of us walks this journey by ourselves. Whether you are living with Parkinson’s, caring for someone you love, teaching, researching, advocating, or simply standing beside a friend, you are part of something bigger.

Remember this today: You are not alone. Not ever. 💞🌷💞🌷💞🌷

Opening ceremonies,

05/28/2026

Having fun at the World Parkinson’s Congress! The next one is in 2029 in Quebec City, Canada. 🍁 🇨🇦 See you there!

05/27/2026

These incredible women from Power4Parkinson’s have inspired so many of the movements, energy, and spirit we bring into our classes at Oregon Parkinson’s Warriors Foundation.

Meeting Polly Caprio, Lauren Lewis, and Angie Cervi here at the World Parkinson’s Congress has been such a meaningful moment for me. These powerful instructors are leaders in our field, changing lives through exercise, movement, and hope for people living with Parkinson’s.

And look at those smiles! Pure joy, passion, and dedication. I am beyond thrilled and grateful to connect with the women who continue to inspire my teaching and so many others around the world. 💙🥊

05/26/2026

And check out the photo of Parkie and I in front of our Red Thread photo submission 💞🧶🧶🧶 We are enjoying and learning and connecting with all my inspirations at the World Parkinson’s Congress!

05/26/2026

Hey Warriors 🥊I was able to get our Tag line on the WPC Living Quilt!!🥊💞🥳

05/23/2026

05/23/2026

Arrived in Phoenix,AZ yesterday for the World Parkinson’s Congress. 2026

05/16/2026

Come see us this Saturday and Sunday from 10–4 at the Thrive 360 Wellness Expo at the Lane Events Center!

This event brings together services, resources, and support for seniors all in one place — and we are excited to be part of it. The Oregon Parkinson’s Warriors Foundation will be sharing a booth with the wonderful Jennifer (Des) Matyas from Lane County Mobile PT.

Stop by to learn more about Parkinson’s-specific exercise, community, wellness resources, and the power of staying active and connected. Plus, I get the added bonus of spending the whole weekend with Des, so you know it’s going to be a good time!

We would love to see some familiar Warrior faces there!