Marian has always led an active life and is an especially avid horseback rider. In 2002, she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Since the information she read about was just depressing, she continued working out at the Y, seeing friends and living the best she could.

In 2011, Marian started the new “Delay the Disease Program to Fight Parkinson’s Symptoms” and participated in aquatic exercise classes.

“The first day of class I even met another horse person. Everyone was so friendly.”

Since taking the class, Marian says,

“I can dress faster. It helps your balance. The class helps you do things in a big way.”

She also feels she is the best she has been in a long, long time and attributes it to the Y.

“I don’t want Parkinson’s to define me. The class helps me do the everyday things a little better and a little faster.  It helps to know there are other people going through the same thing as you.”