April 11 marks World Parkinson’s Day, a time to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and stand alongside the millions of people worldwide, including more than 20,000 Iowans, living with Parkinson’s disease.
At WesleyLife, this day reflects something bigger than awareness. It reflects a shared commitment to ensuring people continue to live with strength, connection, and purpose, regardless of diagnosis.
That commitment is grounded in our vision to become the most dynamic and inclusive champion to revolutionize the experience of aging. It guides how we show up, how we design experiences, and how we walk alongside those navigating complex health conditions like Parkinson’s.
Fighting back together
One of the most powerful ways that vision comes to life is through Rock Steady Boxing, an internationally recognized, non-contact boxing program designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s.
WesleyLife was among the first organizations to bring Rock Steady Boxing to Iowa. Today, it remains an important part of well-being experiences in several of our communities for healthy living.
The program is built on a simple but powerful idea: Movement matters. Strength matters. And the right kind of support can make a meaningful difference in daily life.
"Bob"
At Hearthstone, our community in Pella, Iowa, that philosophy takes on a tangible form. Participants train alongside a mannequin named “Bob,” who represents the challenges of Parkinson’s. ("Bob" is in the center of the photograph above.)
“He has all the things we hate about Parkinson’s written on him — things like stiffness, tremors, and dependence,” Natasha Nikkel, director of well-being at Hearthstone, says. “So we don't always love Bob!
"But we also use him to talk about the positives that have come through having Parkinson’s, including learning to fight back, strength and faith, and a great community of support.”
Rock Steady is not just about exercise, Natasha stresses; it's about reframing the experience of the disease, building confidence, resilience, and connection along the way.
A community that shows up
At Heritage House in Atlantic, Iowa, that same sense of purpose draws people from across the region. Former director of well-being Jon Jordan, now retired, helped introduce Rock Steady Boxing to Iowa alongside Nikkel. His classes welcomed participants who travel hours to be part of the experience, and his work continues in the community today .
That kind of commitment speaks to something deeper than a workout: It reflects the power of community, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel supported, understood, and empowered.
Living well, every day
Parkinson’s disease can change how a person moves, speaks, and navigates daily life. But it does not define who they are or what is possible.
Programs like Rock Steady Boxing are one way WesleyLife continues to support health, independence, and well-being. They are also one example of how we are working to reshape what aging looks like by expanding what is possible.
On World Parkinson’s Day, and every day, that is the work!
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, support is available, and you don't have to be affiliated with WesleyLife's communities or services to participate. To learn more about Rock Steady Boxing and other well-being experiences at WesleyLife, visit wesleylife.org.
