Our Why
We understand the effects of Parkinson's disease first hand.
Founded by someone who has Parkinson's, we understand what it's like to live with this disease. We have experienced the questions that arise after a diagnosis, the physical limitations of doing everyday tasks, and the feeling of wanting to isolate from the world—but we have also experienced the light at the end of the tunnel through community, movement, and awareness. Parkinson's Strong exists to help you find, and shine, that light.
Our story begins here
Meet the Founder
My story begins in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, where I was a thin, scrappy 14-year-old boy just starting kickboxing. In the ring I was fearless, often taking a fight on 2-3 days’ notice. I would fight anyone even though I hadn’t trained, relying only on my natural talent. This would result in me taking a lot of unnecessary damage, head trauma, and multiple concussions. After accumulating a 55-9 amateur & 36-8 professional record, my will to fight had gotten the best of me.
I would later develop a tremor in my left hand and my doctor was quick to diagnose me with Traumatic Brain Injury after seeing my MRI results. I would later be diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in 2014 at the age of 49. It was a crushing blow to my ego, and I found myself with crippling depression. By the grace of God, I found the urge to fight again—but this time, I was in the biggest fight of my life. I realized I could either become another victim to this disease or be victorious. Later, I found that the only time I felt better was if I was helping others. After completing certifications in Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, and Stretching & Flexibility through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), I would soon make it my primary business to share my testimony and make this my ministry.
After fighting this horrible disease and having helped countless others, I know God has led me down this path to make a difference. Parkinson’s Strong is a Non-Profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease by encouraging community, fostering movement, and raising awareness.
I’m deeply moved by the number of people who have shared their interest in supporting this movement. I’m passionate about helping others and truly grateful for those who have a heart to give back to our community. We have mighty goals and know we will get there with your help.
John Chapman
Certified by National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) | CPT, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Stretching & Flexibility Coach | Owner/Affiliate - Rock Steady Boxing - Emerald Coast & Destin | President/Founder - Parkinson’s Strong, Inc.
Did you know?
01
Florida's state population has the highest percentage of people diagnosed with Parkinson's.
02
Every six minutes someone will be diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in the U.S.
03
The leading cause of death in Parkinson's patients is pneumonia, so we encourage movement as our best form of preventative medicine.
Movement is Medicine
Because part of our mission at Parkinson's Strong is to foster movement, we offer local boxing and exercise programs in the Grayton Beach and Destin, FL, area to help those with Parkinson's, Traumatic Brain Injuries, and other diagnoses that limit the physical body. Our classes offer not only support for mobility, balance, and rigidity issues, but also a community of family to come alongside you in your journey.