Free E-learning course – Boxing for Parkinson: Why It Works – And How You Can Help

Lesson 3: What It’s Like to Live with Parkinson’s – Stories, Challenges, and Hope

Learning Goals

After completing this lesson, you will be able to:

Describe how Parkinson’s affects daily life beyond physical symptoms
Understand the emotional and psychological impact of the disease
Recognize the importance of support, movement, and mindset

Living with Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease is often seen from the outside as a movement disorder. But for those living with it, the experience is much more complex. It affects the body, yes — but also confidence, social connection, mood, and identity.

Many people with Parkinson’s describe a sense of losing control, especially in early stages before the right treatment and support are in place. Small tasks like buttoning a shirt, writing a note, or simply walking can become slow and frustrating.

More Than Just Symptoms

Parkinson’s can cause:

Fatigue and low energy
Changes in mood, including anxiety or depression
Reduced facial expressions (which can affect communication)
Feelings of isolation or embarrassment in public

It is important to know that these challenges vary from person to person. Not everyone has the same symptoms, and not all progress at the same pace.

The Role of Family and Friends

Support from loved ones makes a major difference. A simple understanding of what Parkinson’s is — and what it feels like — can help reduce stigma and frustration on both sides.

It’s not about fixing the disease. It’s about showing up, staying connected, and encouraging movement and hope.

Hope Through Action

Parkinson’s is not curable, but it is manageable. People who stay physically active, socially engaged, and mentally stimulated often report a better quality of life. Boxing and other forms of targeted exercise help restore confidence, structure, and purpose.

With the right approach, people with Parkinson’s don’t just survive — they adapt, grow, and inspire.

External Resources

Life with Parkinson’s – Real Stories (Davis Phinney Foundation)

Michael J. Fox Foundation – How Parkinson’s Affects Daily Life