Role at Beat PD: I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease almost 15 years ago and created this program. Today, I am training trainers for the Beat PD program locally and around the country and growing my program to help as many people as possible.

Fun fact: My favorite foods, that I do not advise to anyone else, are Oreo cookies and powdered donuts.

Favorite quote: "Winners never quit and quitters never win."

Best part of job: Parkinson’s Disease and Beat PD has given me the opportunity to speak publicly and become more confident in myself.

 Role at Beat PD: I teach classes online and in N.C.

Fun fact: I eat chocolate everyday!

Favorite quote: “Use your smile to change the world, but don’t let this world change your smile.”

Best part of job: To be able to use my knowledge and skills to make an impact on others!

Role at Beat PD: I plan events for members at Beat PD, work on fundraising efforts, expand Beat PD to other sites in CT, and hear from participants about their experiences with our classes.

Fun fact: I recently moved to the beach!

Favorite quote: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” -Maya Angelou

Best part of job: Getting to learn and understand more about our members stories.

Role at Beat PD: I help members and trainers daily with behind the scenes help on classes and coordinate our finances.

Fun fact: To stay active, I like to go to Health Trax and participate in their group classes

Best part of job: I love to teach for Beat PD Today because I am inspired daily by my participants.

Role at Beat PD: I teach classes and train from Florida.

Fun Fact: I was a schoolteacher for 24 years in Indiana and one year in Naples, Florida. 20 of my years was spent as a middle school math teacher. I’ve also been a group Fitness Instructor and trainer for the past 25 years and that helped keep my sanity during my school teaching career. 😉

Favorite Quote: “Your mind is your strongest muscle.”

Best part of job: For the past 25 years, I’ve met the most amazing participants who’ve become my lifelong friends. It’s the most rewarding feeling being able to be a part of their journey!

Role at Beat PD: Fitness Instructor virtually and in East Hartford

Fun fact: I completed a professional dance training program in Chicago back in 2018-2019.

Favorite quote: Balance is the place between off-balance and off-balance.

Best part of job: I love being a small part of the reason why people start to realize how strong and capable they are.

Role at Beat PD: In-home personal trainer (and formerly taught classes in East Hartford).

Fun fact: I am still learning each individual is so unique. My clients surprise me every day. They have also taught me to not underestimate anyone no matter their age and/or condition.

Favorite quote: “Instead of cursing the darkness, light a candle.” -Ben Franklin

Best part of job: I teach classes mostly in Brookfield, CT.

Role at Beat PD: I teach classes in Marlborough, CT with a focus on posture and core strength.

Fun Fact: I am one of the most organized people you will meet.

Favorite quote: I am very inspired by my clients.

Best part of job: Being inspired by the participants.

Role at Beat PD: I teach yoga classes for Beat PD.

Fun fact: I was the Director of the CT Center for Massage Therapy for 20 year.

Best part of job: Yoga can be a potent life skill for people living with Parkinson’s Disease and other movement disorders, including benefits like increased confidence.

Role at Beat PD: I teach clients in their home and teach classes in Cheshire and Farmington, CT.

Fun fact: I graduated with a business degree but returned to school after my 2nd child was born to get an occupational therapy degree.

Favorite quote: If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you!

Best part of job: Helping my clients move better and get stronger so they can fully participate in life!

Role at Beat PD: I teach in person classes at Hartford Healthcare in Vernon, CT.

Fun fact: I have known Michelle since she was a junior in high school.

Favorite quote: Be the change you wish to see in the world.

Best part of job: The best part of the job are the participants! They inspire me every week by their strength, courage, and determination!

Role at Beat PD: Fitness Instructor virtually and in East Hartford

Fun fact: I lived and worked in Yellowstone National Park for a summer!

Favorite quote: "A little progress each day adds up to big results." - Satya Nani.

Best part of job: I love being a small part of the reason why people start to realize how strong and capable they are.

Role at Beat PD - Teach in person classes in East Hartford.

Fun fact: I enjoy walking barefoot in the rain.

Favorite quote, "you can't stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf." John Kabat-Zinn

Favorite part about my job: I am empowered by the participants to be a better trainer everyday

Role at Beat PD: To bring movement and joy into your lives through online classes.

Fun Fact: I was an unhealthy over weight child and that is why I am now an avid ambassador of fitness both mentally and physically.

Favorite quote: Our deepest fear it's not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most brightens us.We are all meant to shine!

Best part of job: Meeting new clients and affording the best possible hour of their day. Clients allowing me to be a part of their lives.

Role at Beat PD: I want to be instrumental guide to others' health journeys.

Fun fact: I love helping others and have been in the exercise field for 38 years.

Favorite quote: Success is not an act; it's a habit.

Best part of job: Motivating others to nourish self worth.