This week at Kiwanis member, Naomi Nicely, introduced the guest speaker, Joe Fisher, who presented on behalf of a program called Delay the Disease. Every Tuesday, Joe and many other passionate therapists work with people who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive disease of the nervous system which can affect a person’s speech, ability to walk, and perform daily chores. Joe goes on to say that the disease does not kill a patient, but unfortunately there is no cure either.
The program helps Parkinson’s patients break their bad habits such as progressively slouching, or the dragging of the feet when walking. These habits can affect the way the disease alters the quality of life of a patient. Joe helps people every week with various exercises, flexibility, and helps them overcome mental hurtles while improving their quality of life through enthusiasm and passion for what he does. “This program has changed my life more than anything,” says Joe. With Parkinson’s effecting over 1 million people in the U.S. and 60,000 new diagnosis a year Joe urges everyone to keep an eye out for symptoms such as a change in gait, speech, or shakiness. Joe has seen incredible improvements in patients of all ages through the program. Delay the Disease is every Tuesday at 11:30 at the Nazarene Church in Paulding. His passion and love for helping others shown through his presentation and personality. Kiwanis members meet over lunch on Thursday, February 8th.
