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The Valley Today is a radio show and podcast dedicated to shining a light on the vibrant community leaders and local events that make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia truly special.  Insightful conversations, engaging stories, and event details connect listeners with the heart and soul of the valley, showcasing its unique culture, initiatives, and people.
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  2. Finding Your People: The Greater Winchester Parkinson's Support Group

Finding Your People: The Greater Winchester Parkinson's Support Group

Mar 26, 2026

Host Janet Michael sits down with leaders and members of the Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group to discuss life with Parkinson's disease, the power of community, and the resources available to patients and caregivers in the region.

Guests

  • Kaleen Baker – Co-leader, Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group
  • Cheryl Conrad – Co-leader, Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group
  • Dolores Gordon – Caregiver and group member
  • Jerry Gordon – Parkinson's patient and group member

Topics Covered

  • The history of the Greater Winchester Area Parkinson's Support Group, founded around 2012 and reestablished post-COVID
  • How the group supports both Parkinson's patients and their caregivers
  • The value of breakout sessions — caregivers and patients meeting separately to share openly
  • Practical tips exchanged within the group (e.g., soap-on-a-rope for shower assistance)
  • Rock Steady Boxing — a circuit training and boxing program proven to benefit Parkinson's patients, available at the Valley Health Wellness Center
  • LSVT BIG and LOUD therapy programs — helping patients maintain movement and vocal strength
  • Dolores and Jerry's personal journey from suspecting a diagnosis to finding community and resources
  • The shortage of Parkinson's specialists in the Winchester area and how the group helps members navigate the medical system
  • The importance of self-care for caregivers
  • The group's reach beyond Village at Orchard Ridge — open to anyone in Winchester, Frederick County, Clarke County, Berkeley Springs, Martinsburg, Hagerstown, and surrounding areas

Upcoming Events

  • Next Meeting: March 31st (breakout session — caregivers and patients meet separately)
  • Parkinson's Awareness Walk: April 21st at the Village at Orchard Ridge
    • Rain date: April 28th
    • Walk distances: ¼ mile to 1 full mile
    • Support staff, beverages, and shade provided
    • No registration required — just show up!

Group Meeting Details

  • When: Last Tuesday of every month, 1:30 PM (meetings run approximately one hour)
  • Where: Chapel at the Village at Orchard Ridge
  • Who: Open to Parkinson's patients, caregivers, family members, friends, and anyone who wants to learn more
  • No registration required

Resources Mentioned