Pam Pettrone, a Sun City resident, invites residents with Parkinson’s, and caretakers of those with the disease, to join a group called the Martini Shakers.Ā
Martini Shakers member Pam Pettrone invites residents impacted by Parkinsonās to join this support group. (Photo by Christine Such/My Sun Day News)
Pettrone said, “I find there is a need for people with Parkinson’s and their caretakers to get support. Joining our group can provide you with a sense of community, emotional support, and practical help, which can significantly improve your quality of life.”
People with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers need supportĀ because it can help them manage the disease and improve their quality of life.Ā Support can include emotional comfort, practical help, and a sense of community.Ā
Pettrone was diagnosed with the disease in 2015.Ā She credits her exercise programs for allowing her to enjoy her life in the community.
“I believe it saved my life.Ā It is the key to helping me enjoy my activities.Ā I play water volleyball, ping pong, bocce ball and pickleball.Ā I don’t stay home. The activities help me keep a positive attitude,” she said.
The group will meet monthly for discussions, presentations, and various activities to provide support and information. Pettrone invites the community impacted by the disease to join the Martini Shakers. She is looking for organizations that will help by providing information and/or giving presentations to the group. The Parkinson’s Foundation, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), and the Michael J. Fox Foundation all offer educational resources and support programs and may provide speaker presentations for Parkinson’s support groups.
Pettrone expressed her hope that the support group time would be uplifting and beneficial, providing a positive outlook for the rest of the month.
Pettrone shared the positive experiences from the previous meetings, highlighting how participants found it beneficial to discuss their medications and symptoms. She particularly mentioned a caretaker who found solace in expressing her feelings, emphasizing the personal growth and empowerment that comes from sharing experiences in the group.
Pettrone asks for community support, emphasizing the need for people to step up and help make the group successful through presentations and various programs.
If anyone is interested in joining the group or providing resources, please contact Pam Pettrone at wildpettrone@aol.com.
