Blog
“I have REM Behavior Sleep Disorder” I announced very matter of factly. The response, “What is that!?” someone asked. I responded, “REM Behavior Sleep Disorder (aka RBD) is a sleep disorder that causes people to act out their dreams while in the REM stage of sleep. “Basically, you are physically and/or vocally acting out your dreams.”
Hello, my name is Denise Rieman. I am a Registered Nurse educated at the University of Cincinnati. I am a lifetime resident of Cincinnati, Ohio. I have been living with Parkinson's Disease for over nine years. My journey with Parkinson's began following two years of failure to diagnose. Having to advocate for myself to reach a diagnosis of Parkinson's, I am passionate about advocating for persons unable to navigate the healthcare system themselves and raising awareness about the disease. The years since have been challenging, but it has also taught me a lot about resilience, hope, and the importance of community.
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous participation in our Steady Strides 2024, presented by Supernus Pharmaceuticals.
Whether you were a sponsor, runner, walker, gift basket donor, volunteer or staff member, we could not have reached our financial goal of $110,000, without your participation. And we not only reached it, but we also blew right by it. I do not yet have the final numbers, as donations continue to come in. As of this morning, you have helped us raise $114,167.
Just as importantly, we had one of the most successful gatherings of the Parkinson community in years. More people participated in the race and Grand Basket Raffle, created teams, enjoyed the food & beverages, grooved to the new Brew Band’s tunes, and just plain joined with their friends and family to celebrate our community of heroes.
I cannot say enough about the volunteers that make Steady Strides a success every year. Our Steady Strides Race Committee has been working and preparing for almost a year. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, creativity and all their time and efforts. More than a hundred others volunteered during race week and on race day. Thanks to all who wore the neon green volunteer shirts this year.
We are looking forward to next year’s race and would love to hear from you on how we can make the day even better. If you have suggestions, or comments, please send them to me at info@parkinsoncincinnati.org.
Again, thank you for making this day such a success again this year. See you next year and Keep Moving!
Chris Gaffney
Steady Strides 5K Walk and Run: Uniting for Parkinson's Support & Wellness
We are thrilled to announce Parkinson's Steady Strides 2024, presented by Supernus Pharmaceuticals! This inspiring event brings our community together to raise funds, awareness, and hope for those affected by Parkinson's disease. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply passionate about making a difference, Steady Strides is your chance to join hands and take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.
Date: Saturday, October 5
Time: Gates open at 8:00 AM, race begins at 10:00 AM
Location: Corwin-Nixon Park, Mason, Ohio
Parkinson Support & Wellness (PSW) is dedicated to empowering individuals in the Greater Cincinnati/Greater Dayton area who are living with Parkinson's disease. Our mission is threefold:
Education: We provide the latest information on treatments, research, and lifestyle adaptations through our educational events. Knowledge is power, and we believe that informed individuals can better manage their health.
Connection: PSW helps bridge the gap by connecting people to local resources, support groups, and exercise programs. We understand that community and shared experiences are essential for well-being.
Exercise, Grants and Programs: We offer financial grants to exercise programs specifically tailored to the needs of Persons with Parkinson Disease. These programs, supported by PSW, reach hundreds of people affected by Parkinson's weekly.
At PSW, we believe that all funds raised should stay within our community. When you participate in Steady Strides, your registration fee and donations directly benefit our neighbors, friends, and loved ones in Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky, Dayton, and Southeastern Indiana. We are a 501(c)3 organization committed to serving our local community.
Friends and family teams are the heartbeat of our event. These groups, united by a common connection to Parkinson's Disease, ensure that vital support services are available to their loved ones. Teams take on unique personalities, emphasizing fun and camaraderie. They also get competitive when it comes to the number of participants and funds raised!
Our teams extend beyond immediate and extended families. They reach out to their communities and social media networks, soliciting sponsors and raising awareness. Together, we amplify our impact and create a ripple effect of compassion and generosity.
Steady Strides isn't just a 5K—it's a celebration! After crossing the finish line, join us for a post-race party filled with:
Free Food: Savor delicious offerings from some of our region's iconic restaurants and brands.
Live Music: Tap your toes and groove to live music—it's the perfect way to unwind after the race.
Grand Basket Raffle: Get ready for exciting prizes and surprise! Preview the baskets on the Run Sign Up registration sight.
Race Medals for all finishers, official 5K and short course
Overall, Age and Gender Group Awards
Connect with our sponsors and visit with exhibitors that provide services to the local Parkinson community.
What’s Next?
Register: Sign up for the race, start or join a fundraising team, and make a difference. Visit Steady Strides Registration to get started.
Volunteer: Be part of the action! Volunteer your time and energy to make Steady Strides a memorable event.
Donate: Every contribution counts. Make a donation to support Parkinson's research, education, and community programs.
For more information, visit Parkinsoncincinnati.org/Steady-Strides.
Let's lace up our sneakers, stand together, and stride toward a brighter future for everyone impacted by Parkinson's. See you at the starting line!
Every year we host a program called Basics of Parkinson’s, typically hosted in February.
This program is for individuals who have been recently diagnosed with PD and for their loved ones involved in their care. However anyone at any point in their journey with PD is welcome to join. Each year we have a different doctor present this program. Many who have attended multiple times have stated they have learned something new.
In 2021 we moved this program to be hosted virtually via Zoom due to COVID. We considered moving it back to in person but have received such positive feedback of hosting our programs online. People feel it is more accessible and enjoy watching our programs from the comfort of their own home.
Our next Basic’s of Parkinson’s is to be hosted on Feb. 10 from 11am-Noon via zoom, hosted by Dr. Iris Lin. Dr. Lin will be presenting the facts about Parkinson’s. This is perfect for those who are newly diagnosed or want to review the basics. A panel discussion to follow the presentation.
Dr. Iris Lin completed her medical school training at the University of Virginia, followed by residency training in Neurology at the University of Pittsburgh. She is currently completing her fellowship training in Movement Disorders Neurology at the University of Cincinnati and is looking forward to practicing in the greater Cincinnati area upon graduation. In her free time, she enjoys crochet, reading, and cooking.
Before joining us virtually on Feb. 10, please consider watching our previous Basics of PD presentations.
Blog written by: Eric Minghella, emm@ssd-help.org
Parkinson’s disease typically affects older people, but if you haven’t yet reached the age where you want to retire and you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease you can apply for Social Security disability benefits. If the symptoms of Parkinson’s are so bad that you can’t work any longer and you expect that you won’t be able to work for at least a year but you have work credits you are eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
The human need for companionship and connection to others is as basic as the need for food and water. Feeling lonely is bad for not only your mental health, but for your physical health. If you are living with PD, you are even more at risk for feeling lonely and disconnected, but here are a few ways to combat that.
There is something about aging that involves fear of the unknown. There is loss and surrender, which causes me to fear. I am the youngest of six siblings, my oldest brother will be 85 this year. He is in good health except for chronic back issues and pain. The rest of my siblings are 83, 78, 77, and 76. I look at the next 10 years as a series of potential losses for me.
Continuing our look at exercise providers in the Greater Cincinnati area, we turn now to the Neurofit Gym, a non-profit organization in Northern Cincinnati specializing in helping those with neurological disorders, including Parkinson's Disease. Through exercise, education, community, and connection, their mission is to help these individuals live healthier and more independent lives.
