Pursuing her passions while living on the island, in 2014, Madeline started a support group for People with Parkinson’s (PWPs) in North Hawaii after observing the lack of resources for this unique group in our rural community. The group initially formed as a way to exchange information and for Madeline to be able to share research on the pertinence of regular and specific exercise programs for PWPs to limit disease progression, create alternative neuropathways, and to regain function that may have been lost.
Now the group serves to increase awareness in our community, and particularly to our medical professionals who may not be familiar with PD and the dynamic nature of this neurological disorder. Thanks to extensive education from Drs. Valerie Carter and Becky Farley while a student at NAU, Madeline was exposed to the forefront of research in PD and the efficacy of exercise as medicine for this population. Madeline was involved in the Flagstaff Parkinson’s Support Group during this time and was sponsored by the group to become certified in the LSVT BIG program as a student in 2011. Formerly referred to as Empowerment through Movement, the growing group in North Hawaii is now called The Waimea Parkinson’s Wellness Support.
Currently the group is flourishing with monthly talk story gatherings the second Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3pm at Tutu’s House in Waimea and regular group exercise classes held at the CrossFit AllStar gym next door to Tutu’s House with a variety of class offerings, including boxing, tai chi and qi gong, LSVT BIG and PWR Moves, and Dance for PD instruction. The group’s main goal is to get together to have a good time and inspire each other to keep moving or find options that work wherever you’re at. All are welcome. Madeline is currently involved in and serves as an ambassador for Hawaii Parkinson Association (HPA) on Oahu, although she is only a part of keeping this group thriving, with Rob Shallenberger now serving on the board of HPA, representing the Waimea Group and leading the Waimea monthly talk story sessions.