*written by Hannah Chanatry
In May 2013 Urbanity launched Dance for Parkinson’s, based on a program developed by the Brooklyn Parkinson’s Group and Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG) to support individuals and caregivers affected by Parkinson’s disease. Through weekly dance classes, this program addresses three primary issues within this population: the function and mobility challenges of PD, the individual and caregiver quality of life, as well as the need for a community network for people with PD to socially interact.
“Urbanity has helped me restructure myself,” says Bobbie, one of Urbanity’s participants affected by Parkinson’s disease, “and say yes, I can get out and I can be happy and I can reach for the stars.”
Bobbie has dedicated her life to caring for others. She has worked with premature infant twins with medical issues and been involved in geriatric work with children in local hospitals, all while working a third job as hostess and bartender at Copperfield’s in Kenmore Square. Once a successful multi-tasker, Bobbie now faces physical inhibitions that have forced her to discontinue these jobs.
“This made me very sad,” Bobbie remarks, “because I’ve always been an outgoing and happy person that helped others.”
But now Bobbie seeks enjoyment in activities that get her moving and is working to gain her strength back. She thoroughly enjoys the positive atmosphere at Urbanity and is already seeing improvements in her movement and mobility.
Classes are led by Artistic Director Betsi Graves, assisted by physical therapists and occupational therapists. Live musical accompaniment provided by a charismatic pianist keeps the energy high as participants delight in compositions from throughout the decades. The classes focus heavily on practicing proper alignment of the body, strengthening the core and lengthening the torso and limbs. Multiple dance styles are explored including tap, tango, flamenco, the Virginia reel, and ballet. More theatrical exercises call for improvisation and creativity. This truly allows participants to take ownership of their bodies and embrace the ability to express themselves freely.
Bobbie comments, “It’s about reaching out to your spirit and finding your own stability.”
Dance for Parkinson’s has also blossomed new relationships that will further strengthen this community. The joy and laughter is contagious as participants and volunteers work together, dance, and share stories about their lives.
“Urbanity dance has become much more than just dance,” says Bobbie, “it’s been building relationships and communicating with other people in a music and movement atmosphere.”
Bobbie shares Urbanity’s belief that this program is a great healer for those affected by Parkinson’s disease. She eagerly offers her support in contributing to its growth and sustainability.
“I think that if more people could come, I would even offer them a ride to get them here so that they can feel what I feel and experience what I’ve experienced,” she claims. “They’ll be able to open up and feel better about themselves like I did.”
Get a glimpse of our Dance for Parkinson’s program featuring Bobbie herself:
Soon we’ll be celebrating Dance with Parkinson’s three-year anniversary. As Urbanity continues to push for the expansion of its community programs, it seeks help from volunteers and donors. If you are interested in working with Urbanity on community projects, don’t hesitate to contact us. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the support of the community at large!
BLOG 