Rock Steady Boxing’s Warrington Hub is set to celebrate its one-year anniversary on Friday, April 11th, with a special fundraising afternoon tea event. The open afternoon will run from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, welcoming community members to come and meet boxers, their families, friends, and carers. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the benefits Rock Steady Boxing offers for people living with Parkinson’s disease and the positive impact it has on both participants and their support networks.
The Warrington hub, which now has over 60 members, hosts four weekly sessions, and the number of participants continues to grow steadily. Michelle Fox, one of the organisers of Rock Steady Boxing, expressed pride in the progress made over the past year. “We’ve accomplished what we set out to do—creating a Parkinson’s Hub where every PD superhero feels at home, valued, and supported. Our sessions foster a sense of self-worth, well-being, and connection, helping individuals feel less isolated.”
To mark Parkinson’s Week from April 7th to 12th, Rock Steady Boxing is challenging all of its boxers across both Warrington and Widnes to complete a combined total of 10,000 punches. This initiative aims to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease while raising funds for the club. The organisation became a Community Interest Company (CIC) in December 2023, and Fox emphasized that all funds raised directly support the club’s operations, including providing a safe environment, essential equipment, and ongoing coach training to ensure tailored sessions for all stages of Parkinson’s disease.
Donations to Rock Steady Boxing can be made via the club’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/rocksteadyboxingwidneswarrington.
One participant, Tim, shared how Rock Steady Boxing has positively impacted his life since joining the program. “My Parkinson’s nurse recommended I try a session at Rock Steady Boxing to help manage my symptoms,” he said. “At first, I was anxious and unsure of what to expect, but I quickly found a welcoming and friendly environment with others facing the same challenges. The volunteers and trainers, like Tommy, are incredibly supportive, and the exercises are tailored to each individual’s ability.”
Tim, who has been attending for six months, noted significant improvements in his strength, balance, and overall well-being. “It’s not just physical improvements; the group also helps with mental health. We have a lot of fun and laughs together, and I’ve made great new friends along the way.”
Rock Steady Boxing’s non-profit structure relies on its community to continue providing its valuable services. Tim encourages others to get involved: “Don’t just think about it—give it a go!”
Related Topics
