At YMCAs across the Kansas City Metro, fitness has always been more than just exercise—it’s about connection, health, and hope. Our branches are gathering places where neighbors support one another, volunteers serve, and families find ways to thrive at their own pace.
Through programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s at Platte County Community Center South, the YMCA of Greater Kansas City is helping individuals living with Parkinson’s disease improve mobility, strength, and quality of life through movement, education, and community support.
On a recent episode of The Movement podcast, Sarah Srock, Program Director II at Platte County Community Center South, sat down with Dr. Muhammad M. Nashatizadeh, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center, to explore how this program is transforming lives across our community.
Dr. Nashatizadeh:
“That’s one of the beautiful things about this program—it gets people together. They’re engaging in something positive, which is exercise. There’s community, there’s togetherness, and I think these are really important parts of trying to bridge some of the gaps that people have when they’re dealing with emotional loss.”
For Sarah, the program has a deeply personal connection—her grandfather lived with Parkinson’s disease. After more than 20 years with the YMCA, she’s proud to help others find the same sense of hope, strength, and belonging through movement.
The need for programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s is great. As Dr. Nashatizadeh explained, access to quality healthcare goes beyond having insurance. Many patients face long wait times—sometimes 8 to 12 months—to see a specialist or find neurologists familiar with the full range of available treatments.
Although there are 29 FDA-approved therapies for Parkinson’s disease, most general neurologists only use a few, limiting patient options. As a board member of the Parkinson’s Foundation Heartland, Dr. Nashatizadeh advocates for better access, education, and resources for patients, families, and caregivers.
The need for programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s is great. As Dr. Nashatizadeh explained, access to quality healthcare goes beyond having insurance. Many patients face long wait times—sometimes 8 to 12 months—to see a specialist or find neurologists familiar with the full range of available treatments.
Although there are 29 FDA-approved therapies for Parkinson’s disease, most general neurologists only use a few, limiting patient options. As a board member of the Parkinson’s Foundation Heartland, Dr. Nashatizadeh advocates for better access, education, and resources for patients, families, and caregivers.
But together, the YMCA and community partners are bringing hope. Through programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s, neighbors find strength, connection, and support—ensuring no one faces their journey alone.
Get Involved – Learn more about Pedaling for Parkinson's and explore other evidence-based programs.
🎧 Listen to or watch the full podcast episode of The Movement to hear more inspiring stories and discover how you can join us in building a healthier, stronger community. Available now:
