Host Janet Michael sits down with leaders and members of the Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group to discuss life with Parkinson's disease, the power of community, and the resources available to patients and caregivers in the region.

Guests

Kaleen Baker – Co-leader, Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group
Cheryl Conrad – Co-leader, Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group
Dolores Gordon – Caregiver and group member
Jerry Gordon – Parkinson's patient and group member

Topics Covered

The history of the Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group, founded around 2012 and reestablished post-COVID
How the group supports both Parkinson's patients and their caregivers
The value of breakout sessions — caregivers and patients meeting separately to share openly
Practical tips exchanged within the group (e.g., soap-on-a-rope for shower assistance)
Rock Steady Boxing — a circuit training and boxing program proven to benefit Parkinson's patients, available at the Valley Health Wellness Center
LSVT BIG and LOUD therapy programs — helping patients maintain movement and vocal strength
Dolores and Jerry's personal journey from suspecting a diagnosis to finding community and resources
The shortage of Parkinson's specialists in the Winchester area and how the group helps members navigate the medical system
The importance of self-care for caregivers
The group's reach beyond Village at Orchard Ridge — open to anyone in Winchester, Frederick County, Clarke County, Berkeley Springs, Martinsburg, Hagerstown, and surrounding areas

Upcoming Events

Next Meeting: March 31st (breakout session — caregivers and patients meet separately)
Parkinson's Awareness Walk: April 21st at the Village at Orchard Ridge

Rain date: April 28th
Walk distances: ¼ mile to 1 full mile
Support staff, beverages, and shade provided
No registration required — just show up!

Group Meeting Details

When: Last Tuesday of every month, 1:30 PM (meetings run approximately one hour)
Where: Chapel at the Village at Orchard Ridge
Who: Open to Parkinson's patients, caregivers, family members, friends, and anyone who wants to learn more
No registration required

Resources Mentioned

Parkinson's Foundation — National resources, reading materials, and information
LSVT Global — Find certified LSVT BIG and LOUD therapists near you