Never stand still

Jim Cooke was diagnosed in 2019 with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves.

As Cooke began searching for treatment, COVID-19 shut down many resources in Syracuse, New York. After two years without specialized treatment, he found solace in a new place called Rock Steady Gym and the Empower Parkinson Incorporation.

Empowering those with Parkinson’s to “fight back,” Rock Steady Boxing provides a holistic program of wellness to maintain functional wellness and slow the progression of the disease.

Cooke finds motivation to stay active and fight back against Parkinson’s in his wife, best friend, and childhood sweetheart, Barbara. The couple has a son, daughter and several grandchildren to pass on their wisdom, interests and love to. They resolve to live one day at a time and take the good with the bad.

Cooke currently is lobbying for Rock Steady Boxing and Empower Parkinson Inc. to receive support from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.