MILWAUKEE — The Wisconsin Parkinson Association said Parkinson’s Disease affects about one in 100 Americans over the age of 60.

While Parkinson’s will not shorten your life, there is currently no cure.

The WPA said Parkinson’s can impact a person’s motor skills. Some symptoms of the disease include body tremors, slowness of movement and impaired balance or coordination.

WPA executive director Kelly Cieslak said they help connect people with support or exercise groups in the state.  

“Exercise and movement really does impact the symptoms of Parkinson’s and it’s known to slow the progression,” said Cieslak. “I would encourage people to get up and move in whatever way that’s best for you. It might be a simple walk in nature or it might be a full-blown exercise class.” 

They helped connect Susan Petersohn to the Rock Steady Boxing program at Fast Back Fitness in New Berlin, which helps people with Parkinson’s improve their mobility.  

“I find that it helps with the tremors,” said Petersohn.

Petersohn was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease four years ago. While it’s brought about some new challenges, it hasn’t stopped her from showing up. 

She first noticed something was different when she was on vacation with her husband and realized she was struggling to walk along the sand on the beach and maintain her balance. 

Her husband, Rich Petersohn, has been with her every step of the way. His love for her is shown each day when he fights right alongside with her at each class.

“She’s not going to sit back and let this disease take over her life,” he said. “She’s the one in charge, and so she’s been a real hero in my life.” 

Patrick Barron is the owner of FastBack Physical Therapy. He said when Petersohn first came in, she was limping and walking around was painful for her. He’s seen how this boxing class has helped her make progress. 

“Parkinson’s is always going to try to work its way into your life so there has to be some type of lifestyle approach,” said Barron. “Whether it’s nutrition, exercise or support groups. If you’re not actively engaged in those, it’s hard to prevent the progression of the disease.” 

Petersohn said while things aren’t going to be exactly the same, she’s encouraged to keep moving forward. 

She still loves to enjoy outdoor activities like biking and kayaking. With the help of her husband, she’s looking forward to enjoying the same activities, just with some modifications. 

Her plan is to enjoy life and knock each day out one step at a time.