Parkinson's Players Crush It in Pickleball

Counter to Win:

Here’s a short pro tip for the week to take your game up a notch:

Pickleball for Awareness:

In Atlanta's Sandy Springs Tennis Center, a group of around twelve individuals gathers every Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. to play pickleball. The remarkable part? Each member of this lively group has Parkinson’s disease. Led by Ellen Bookman, diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s at 52, this group uses pickleball not only as exercise but also to challenge perceptions about Parkinson's. Their collective improvement has been noticeable since they began less than a year ago. For Bookman and her partners, the goal is to be seen as capable individuals, defying their diagnosis.

Exercise proves vital for those dealing with Parkinson’s, both mentally and physically. Pickleball, a social and brain-boosting sport, plays a crucial role in Bookman’s fitness regimen. It aids in maintaining mental wellness, as stress exacerbates symptoms.

Now, Bookman is an advocate for Parkinson’s awareness and leads a fundraising pickleball tournament for the Center for Movement Challenges, which supports people with Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. The NO LIMITS Pickleball Challenge reflects their spirit — limitless, despite challenges.

—Hey friends, don’t forget to subscribe to The Paddle and share with your fellow pickleballers! It helps a ton.