An interview with Janice Linnert: It’s All About Tony
Biography
I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Florida in 1995. I was a young widow and met my future husband. Tony, in 1998. He adopted my daughter, Theresa. shortly after we married. I was a first-grade teacher and tutor for many years. I am now happily retired and very involved with helping others with Parkinson’s.
Look What Happened To My Tree Paperback
Young children everywhere will enjoy learning about the beauty of each season as depicted by Theresa’s favorite tree.
All proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to organizations who are dedicated to helping people with Parkinson’s Disease live a better life.
Can you tell me more about your Advocacy?
After my husband passed, I became an ambassador volunteer for the Parkinson’s Foundation. As a volunteer, I reach out to other caregivers to help them in their journey. I also got certified to teach a Pedal for Parkinson’s class at the YMCA. Additionally, I get involved with fundraisers throughout the year to help those with Parkinson’s.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
One of my passions is fitness, so the cycling class ties in very well with that. I got very involved after meeting a young woman who had Parkinson’s. She pointed me in the direction of the Parkinson’s Foundation where I became an ambassador volunteer.
What type of goals does individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
When I work with caregivers, the goal is to make them aware of the many resources that are available for them. When I work with the participants in a cycling class, their goal is to come on a regular basis and work as hard as they can. It has been proven that when done correctly, symptoms can decrease by up to 35%.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
I got certified through the Davis Phinney Foundation. The class is three days a week for one hour each class.
I am also a certified mentor for caregivers, and that training was provided by an organization called Neuro Challenge.
What effect can your Advocacy have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
To help people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers live a better life.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your Advocacy?
To get more people involved in fitness as a way to help with their symptoms. Also to reach out to more caregivers to make their lives easier.
What events do you participate in?
Fundraisers for the Parkinson’s foundation. That includes revolution and moving day. I also do presentations throughout our community to raise awareness about Parkinson’s.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Caregivers benefit when their person stays healthy and active. Additionally, they can be a better caregiver with the right resources, which I provide when we meet.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
I’m listed on Neuro Challenge‘s website.
Facebook Janice Grunewald Linnert
How can others also become advocates for awareness?
Contact the various foundations that are out there for Parkinson’s.
In your opinion what is the key to effective advocacy?
Passion, persistence, patience
How can we better fundraise to support a cure for Parkinson’s?
Maybe more social media?
What other activities do you undertake to help improve and support your daily living Eg exercise and alternative remedies?
I am into lots of different fitness activities (running, weights, body combat, tennis, biking, kayaking)
Why should people who don’t have Parkinson’s care about this?
Staying active is crucially important, not only in fighting this disease, but to just be healthy and happy.
Have you had any family members or relatives affected by Parkinson’s disease?
My husband passed from complications due to Parkinson’s in June 2022.
If you had one song that would tell us more about you or represent your life, which song would it be?
2 songs:
I Am Woman (Helen Reddy)
To Where You Are (Josh Groban)
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
Never give up and keep moving!
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TogetherForSharon® In memory of my mother, Sharon to voice awareness & hope for a Parkinson’s Disease cure. Sharon’s Son, George