Sherry Jess Finds Support in Weekly Classes
Sherry Jess wanted to keep moving.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in February 2023, the Albion resident and retired Certified Dental Assistant knew staying active was crucial to her overall mobility. Sherry found the movement she was looking for – along with improved dexterity and balance – in the fitness classes offered through Gritman’s Martin Wellness Center.
The Wellness Center offers multiple sessions of an exercise class called PE for PD aimed at combatting Parkinson’s in a fun and challenging way. The exercises focus on balance, strength, mobility and cognitive function.
“The one thing my Neurologist told me after giving me the diagnosis was you have to keep moving,” Sherry said. “If you become sedentary this disease will rob you of overall movement. I just took the attitude that these classes were ‘my job.’ I have to go to work three times a week. The coaches are a true blessing to those of us in each class.”
The classes have been effective for Sherry and are popular among Martin Wellness Center participants. Each 90-minute course has more than a dozen participants. Sherry has been enrolled in the PE for PD class for a little more than a year.
Mary Jo Penberthy, Clinical Coordinator at the Martin Wellness Center, and three other Wellness Center Exercise Specialists teach the fitness class four times each week.
“The things Parkinson’s patients struggle with in their daily lives, we gear the exercises toward, to help make their daily lives a little bit easier,” Mary Jo said. “Dexterity, cognitive function, balance, posture, mobility, practicing big movements, using loud voices.”
Each class begins with a Q&A encouraging participants to use their voices, followed by a warmup. Workouts include boxing and various exercise movements written out on a white board incorporating the use of hand weights, a balance bar and mats. Stretching is included in the fitness class and each participant is encouraged to listen to their body throughout the exercise routines.
“Sherry is a very spirited participant, inclusive and looks out for all those in her class,” said Mary Jo. “She enters her class as I am finishing up mine, and the first thing she says to me is ‘Hi Trouble! I know you had something to do with these exercises on the board.’ She is a joy to have in class and brings a smile to our faces.”
Sherry Jess has been enrolled in PE for PD for a little more than a year.
One unique element of the class is it is only open to Parkinson’s patients, which allows each participant to relate to each other during the activities.
“It is an ongoing program. More movement is better for slowing down the progression of the disease. It is not a cure, but it does help,” Mary Jo said. “Everyone in class is going through the exact same thing. They can share stories, share information and it is great to see the bonds they make with others in class.”
Sherry admits she’s more susceptible to falls and balance issues since first being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, but the PE for PD classes have helped as she works through her daily activities.
“My balance has improved. Overall strength. Better stamina,” she said. “Fitness has improved greatly.”
The Martin Wellness Center has offered the PE for PD exercise class for Parkinson’s patients since 2019, and the program continues to grow. Four classes are offered throughout the week. A referral is required to participate.
The Gritman Martin Wellness Center is located at 409 S. Jackson St. in Moscow. Call 208-883-9605 for more information on exercise classes offered. The PE for PD membership fee is $65 per month.
Martin Wellness Center Programs
