On February 25, 2023, the Parkinson’s Foundation hosted its annual Revolution indoor cycling event where riders throughout the country raise awareness and generate funds for Parkinson’s disease research.
Here in Connecticut, 54 riders from around the state participated in the event, which included several weeks of fundraising that culminated in a Parkinson’s Foundation-sponsored spin class held at CycleBar in West Hartford. The event attracted people with Parkinson’s, caregivers, allies, and healthcare providers who each clipped in for 45 minutes of vigorous cycling and unity in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.
Several riders representing Yale’s Comprehensive Parkinson’s Disease Program formed a team and collectively raised $866.50 for the Foundation.
In addition to raising funds and awareness, the event highlighted the unique and important role that exercise can play in combatting the progression of Parkinson’s disease, as well as its overall benefit to wellbeing in general. Participants with Parkinson’s were encouraged to take control of their disease through exercise, while allies pedaled alongside in support. To this end, Veronica Santini, MD, director of the Yale Comprehensive Parkinson’s Disease Program, kicked off the ride with an inspiring speech.
She pledged to the group, “In solidarity with the Parkinson’s Foundation, the Yale Movement Disorders team will not roll over and allow Parkinson’s to take control, but rather get spinning to take ownership of the disease together!”
At the conclusion of the ride, participants were invited to mingle in a “sweat social” gathering in the lobby of CycleBar where refreshments were served. The mood was upbeat as riders recovered, snapped photos, and traded statistics on their respective workouts.
Together, the Connecticut participants raised a total of $12,896.08 for the Parkinson’s Foundation. Yale’s Comprehensive Parkinson’s Disease team collectively raised nearly $900. Donations to the Yale Movement Disorders Division team will be accepted now through April 30.