Parkinson’s Disease is on the rise and second only to Alzheimer’s Disease in neurodegenerative disorders. While research is ongoing to find a cure, evidence shows exercise can help those living with Parkinson’s relieve symptoms and maintain quality of life.
 
Stoughton Health is proud to offer Parkinson’s Disease exercise classes led by trained physical therapist Emily Devine, DPT.  Emily is considered one of our local experts as she is certified in LSVT BIG and LOUD (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) and presents to future DPT’s in the Doctoral Physical Therapy program at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Through her passion and mentorship, Stoughton Health has been able to expand program offerings from one class per week to three classes per week at two different locations (Stoughton and Oregon) and we have grown from one certified employee to four who can provide LSVT Big and Loud services to our patients and community. In addition, through Emily’s championship, the Wisconsin Parkinson’s Association awarded Stoughton Health a grant to invest in equipment for these Parkinson’s classes to increase challenge, provide a variety of movement options, and improve the quality of exercises for those who participate. Emily advocates for those living with Parkinson’s Disease through her volunteerism as well. Every year she fundraises and participates in the Optimism Walks held locally through the American Parkinson Disease Association.
 
Emily’s passion for her mission is evident in feedback from her group. Long-time class participant Ruby Cabibbo shares, “Emily’s genuine interest in the whole person is obvious in every class. She shows her vast knowledge of Parkinson’s disease to help class members incorporate exercise into their lives. Emily is very skilled at individualizing the exercise within the group setting and uses many techniques to help each class member progress. She challenges us and makes it a fun session.”