“Pain, trouble, and disappointment drain us, but trusting God, focusing on him, and thanking him revitalize us. It’s his presence within us that renews us physically, spiritually, and emotionally so we can keep going.”
– Dr. Charles Stanley

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 15 individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease arrive at the WROC for fitness class. The fellowship, support, and encouragement radiate from the gym. We don’t know how the symptoms of this disease affected their morning. Is this a good day or was it a rough night?

Dave participates in the Parkinson’s Fitness Level 1 (PD1) class and arrives early to transfer the heavy boxing equipment from storage to the gym floor. You’ll often find him in conversation with other participants, encouraging and supporting them. He also helps coach the Parkinson’s Fitness Level 2 (PD2) class.

“We are truly blessed to have this program available to us. Not sure how I got to be a helper in PD2. But it is rewarding to see the difference in these men,” says Dave.

He finds strength and encouragement through scripture and people God places in his path. Dave is not grateful for his diagnosis, but he is grateful “in” his diagnosis.

For Mary, being a part of this church community, and specifically this exercise class, has reinforced that gratitude and thankfulness can strengthen lives and bring us closer to God. Mary participates in class with a vitality that is infectious and is a powerful witness for Christ.

She believes each of us has a burden to carry, an adversity of some kind. She chooses to approach adversity with a grateful and thankful heart, so she can lift others up.

“Not to say that facing adversity is that easy but when we can support others, our own burden is lightened,” says Mary. She carries this thought with her: “Bear your cross while you wait for your crown.”

God’s blessings abound!

– Kathy Long