Patients CLIMB to higher quality of life

More than 53 million people worldwide suffer from Parkinson’s disease, and this week’s Health Hero, Linda Himes, and a host of others are offering those affected locally to CLIMB to a higher quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease affects the central nervous system over a long period of time. It targets the motor system causing slowed gait, shaking, rigidity and general slowness in movement. The disease affects men more than women and the onset of symptoms normally begins over the age of 60. The cause is generally unknown, but there are genetic and environmental factors that are suspect.

While wintering in Florida, Esther Wiatt of Montgomery County found a program that helped those with Parkinson’s called CLIMB. It focuses on exercise and activities designed to improve the physical, mental and spiritual well being of those with Parkinson’s. Wiatt and a group of women at the Whitesville Christian Church promote the local program. Members include Peggy Whitacre, Cathy Knowling and Linda Himes.

Himes graduated from Vincennes University with an associate’s degree in physical therapy and has spent 31 years with the hospital system now known as Franciscan Health. She has been working with the home-bound for the past 21 years. She was certified in Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery this past April. Her rallying cry is, “Choose to move!”

“When I go into homes people have created a little nest around their favorite chair,” Himes said. “I make them get up. Exercise is medicine.”

“The greatest fear of Parkinson’s patients is falling, so we teach them how to get off the floor if they do,” Himes said. “Improving their mobility gives them confidence. Parkinson patients ‘freeze up’ with their feet feeling like they are frozen to the floor.”

Himes counters these issues with treadmills and stationary bikes along with deep breathing exercises. The effort gets more oxygen and nutrients to the brain with a constant flow of information called stimuli that literally stimulate the brain. This process is called neuroplasticity or nerve growth due to demand. She believes the program is proof that a brain under siege can grow and become stronger.

Practice is a repetitive process that builds the nervous system, improving things like balance, coordination and agility. Training measurably improves performance through organic change in the body improving endurance, strength and flexibilty.

Don Waterman, founder of the Indiana Parkinson’s Foundation, is a Parkinson’s patient. He didn’t want to just sit around, but rather empower himself in dealing with the disease. He also acknowledges the results can vary with each person, but Himes reports a quantitative improvement with almost every person.

Himes said the meetings start with devotions. What a great idea to bring in the best healer of all times. This is followed by posture training, step clearance and trunk rotation to name a few. Attendees are encouraged to share their problems and the group works on skills to deal with them. Of course, there are emotional issues like anxiety and apathy. Group therapy helps bolster courage and hope for a better day.

Caregivers like Himes have a special calling and we are truly blessed to have them. The CLIMB group has classes for caregivers to help them with their quest.

I asked her why she is so dedicated to this field to which she responded without thought: “We are here to help everyone. That’s what we’re to do, love and help.”

Honor those like Himes and the CLIMB group by reading up on Parkinson’s and other neurological diseases. Help their group grow with a donation of time or treasure. Their contact number is 765-690-0315 or email whitesvillechristian@gmail.com.

Until then, see you on the walk.