ST. LOUIS – Parkinson’s disease is a form of movement disorder that can affect the completion of everyday tasks. It is a long-term and advancing condition, which implies that symptoms increase as time goes on.
Pipes for Parkinson’s is a new movement started by a husband who wanted to raise money for Parkinson’s after his wife was diagnosed with the disease.
“Joanne, my wife, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease about seven years ago,” said Robert Schneider, co-founder of Pipes for Parkinson’s. “Over the last few years, it’s gotten increasingly worse, but we got everything under control.”
Schneider studied the organ right out of high school but didn’t pursue it as a career. “I’ve just renewed my interest in music, and we sat down at the breakfast table one morning and came up with this idea of ‘Pipes for Parkinson’s,” said Schneider. “I reached out to the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists.”
The group loved the idea, and Schneider was able to recruit eight volunteers for his recital in March.
“I believe this will be an ongoing project. I will be reaching out to other musicians for the project so that we can have concerts featuring different kinds of music throughout the year to raise awareness for the APDA,” said Schneider.
The APDA, or the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, offers referral services, educational initiatives, support programs, health and wellness activities, as well as other events, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the Parkinson’s community nationwide.
Pipes For Parkinson’s is holding a recital with American Guild Organists on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Little Flower Church in Richmond Heights; admission is free. Donations will be accepted at the event.
FOX 2’s Tim Ezell has his own battle with Parkinson’s disease. “Two years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease,” Ezell said. “It’s a brain disorder where the cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that coordinates movement, stop working. That leads to a movement disorder. All Parkinson’s patients are different, but my main initial symptoms were lack of balance, slow movement, stiffness, and fatigue. It’s a progressive disease, which means it will get worse over time, but at what rate? Nobody knows.”
Since his announcement in August of 2023, Tim has been using boxing to help manage his symptoms. The gym he has been attending is Rock Steady Boxing. At this establishment, they use exercises that are meticulously designed to target the specific needs of those with Parkinson’s.
But Rock Steady Boxing’s impact extends far beyond physical workouts. It might be about fitness, but it is also about family. They surprised Tim on his birthday on February 21.
For anyone living with Parkinson’s disease or knowing someone who is, there are several Rock Steady Boxing gyms in our area and many more across the country. You can find the nearest gym and more information about the program at rocksteadyboxing.org.
