"Power Up and Exercise Classes"

About: North Devon District Hospital / Parkinson's Service

(as a relative),

My husband attended one of the first classes two years ago when he was first diagnosed. I was invited to join the Chair and her husband, to gain information on where and when I would be able to find support when I required it. 

Since then, my husband has attended weekly Pilates classes, which has helped his mobility tremendously.

We recently had an annual review with Suzanne. She asked me if I would be interested in volunteering for the Power Up classes.

I have been to 3 classes, which have improved a great deal since they first started. The other halves of newly diagnosed patients, have found it very helpful to speak to the volunteers, some of whom have the condition themselves and others whose partner does. They are able to give advice based on their own experience.

For most of the eleven week course, Suzanne invites a Speaker to talk on a different aspects such as Speech Therapy, different types of exercise and Social Groups available.

I am really impressed with all the work that Suzanne puts into these sessions. We have nearly finished the eighth group and another one will be starting in April.

If they weren’t available, the Parkinson’s sufferers would miss out on a great deal of vital information and help.

I feel very privileged to be able to help with such a worthy cause.

Do you have a similar story to tell? Tell your story & make a difference ››

Responses

Response from Suzanne Seymour, Parkinson’s Specialist Physiotherapist (Northern Services), Neurology (Northern Services), Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust yesterday
Suzanne Seymour
Parkinson’s Specialist Physiotherapist (Northern Services), Neurology (Northern Services),
Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

Parkinson's Specialist Physiotherapist.

Submitted on 14/03/2025 at 13:25
Published on Care Opinion at 13:25


Thank you so much for taking the time to feedback about the services that we offer for people with Parkinson's. It is a collaborative effort from staff in the NHS alongside volunteers from the local branch of Parkinson's UK.

Power UP! has evolved from when it was first piloted in 2022 and we are grateful that you are willing to volunteer your time to support other supporters who are at the start of their journey with their partners with Parkinson's. Thank you.

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