By Jeff Wilson
The mission of Rock Steady Boxing is to help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their quality of life. This unique program recently received support from Com-Pac, International in the form of a $15,538 gift.
The funds will help expand the program, which is hosted in SIU’s Student Recreation Center from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. every week, Monday through Thursday. Rock Steady Boxing was established in 2006 in Indianapolis and has expanded to more than 825 locations worldwide. SIU’s classes are instructed by Misty Wright and Barbara Tyler.
“We are blessed to be one of those 825-plus locations,” said Wright, who has been working with the program from more than 6 ½ years at SIU. “We started with one fighter, and now we have about 25 regulars. It’s being prescribed by doctors and has spread greatly through word of mouth.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. The exact cause is still unknown, and there is no cure.
“These classes help Parkinson’s patients with fitness, mobility, and flexibility. It improves their cardiovascular function and hand-eye coordination.” Wright said. “It also provides them with a sense of community. Many of them say they couldn’t live without it. One of our main goals is to give them a better, happier life.”
The donation will allow Wright and Tyler to help cover the small registration fee for participants, help expand the offerings within the gym, and host special events to promote the program more broadly.
“This level of support is incredible. It’s really a blessing,” Wright said. “I want to thank Com-Pac for this gift, and I want to thank SIU for allowing us to help these people.”
To learn more about Rock Steady Boxing, visit https://rec.siu.edu/programs/fitness/access-inclusive-recreation/rock-steady-boxing.php or contact Sydney Devine at 618-453-1275 or sydney.devine@siu.edu to sign up for classes.
