When Terrie first noticed the tremors in her hand, she didn't think much of it. It was her son who pointed out the subtle shaking that would eventually lead to her Parkinson's diagnosis in November 2023. 

What followed was a story of determination, community and finding strength she thought she'd lost.

Finding Her Fighting Spirit

Terrie's journey to Rock Steady Boxing at The Commons on Marice in Eagan, MN, a community managed by The Goodman Group, began at an unexpected place, her neighborhood book club. 

After sharing her recent diagnosis with close friends, one woman mentioned that her husband attended Rock Steady Boxing classes nearby. That simple conversation would change Terrie's approach to living with Parkinson's.

"I was just starting to read about Parkinson's and learned that boxing was very beneficial to slow down the progress," Terrie shares. Though she didn't know what to expect from a boxing class, she was immediately excited.

More Than Boxing

Walking into her first Rock Steady Boxing class, Terrie learned this was about more than throwing punches. Under the guidance of Coach Jeff, she found a program that addressed both body and mind.

"I really love that there's a lot of variety and it's not just boxing," Terrie explains. "Boxing is only a part of the class. We also work on strength mentally and physically."

The classes incorporate balance work, cognitive exercises and strength training, all specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's. 

For Terrie, who had experienced falls before her diagnosis, the balance training was a huge help. "I don't feel like I'm going to fall," she notes. "The balance is very much better."

A Community of Fighters

What surprised Terrie most was the camaraderie. 

The Rock Steady Boxing community at The Commons on Marice became a support network of people facing similar challenges.

"If somebody doesn't show up, we want to know how they're doing, what's going on. Everybody really takes an interest in each other," Terrie says. "I really look forward to coming just for some of the social part we have with each other, too."

Coach Jeff facilitates this community connection through thoughtful questions during class and by organizing social events outside the gym. These friendships have become a major part of Terrie's story.

Reclaiming Her Game

One year into Rock Steady Boxing, Terrie has experienced improvements she didn't expect. Most importantly, her golf game has returned.

Before her diagnosis, Terrie was ready to give up the sport she'd enjoyed for 30 years. Her golf partners and family noticed her constant exhaustion. "I wasn't very strong anymore. I was very fatigued all the time," she remembers.

Today is a different story. 

Terrie shares, "People were noticing, wow, you are really stronger and you're hitting the ball better. That made me feel really good because I really do like that and I was almost ready to give it up."

While she still experiences some fatigue after a round, which she notes is normal and weather-dependent, the improvement has been substantial.

The Road Ahead

Attending Rock Steady Boxing three times per week at The Commons on Marice, Terrie has seen her symptoms stabilize rather than progress. "In the year and a half I have not seen my symptoms progress, and that's what I heard this class was all about, to slow down the progression."

Even when traveling to Florida, she sought out Rock Steady Boxing classes to maintain her routine. "I just love that you can actually travel and find a class to go to," she says.

For others considering Rock Steady Boxing, Terrie says, "Don't give up right away, give it some time. Try to go in with an open mind to really find the fun and enjoy it and meet new people."

Terrie's story tells us that a Parkinson's diagnosis means finding new ways to enjoy the activities you love. Through Rock Steady Boxing, she's found renewed strength, meaningful friendships and the ability to keep swinging. Both in the ring and on the golf course.