Supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation, made possible thanks to the generosity of the estate of Stanley and Gloria Brams.
The Pathway Program for Parkinson's (PPP) is more than just an exercise class. It’s an opportunity to learn how your body senses and responds to the world, so movement becomes something you understand, not just something you do. Your body has three systems that help you move: what you see, what you feel, and where your head is. PPP teaches you how to use all three and integrate them into movements focused on gait, balance, and mobility.
Curious to learn more? Scroll down to read the FAQs!
About the program…
If you would like a printed version of the application, please email: Tcemberton@gmail.com
PPP is a hybrid pilot program that is free and fully funded, currently supporting those living with Parkinson's who:
Are Newly diagnosed or are in the early stages of Parkinson’s (0-5 years, Stages 1-2)
Live in the Chicago area
Can travel to in-person evaluations and group sessions, located at 4809 N. Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Have access to technology to attend virtual sessions
Who is the program for…
Pre- and post-evaluation
1 private session
6 online group classes
3 in-person group classes
Class recordings
Travel stipend
What’s included…
Key Dates
November
Application Deadline: Nov 16
December
Pre-Evaluations: Dec 1 – 21
January
First Class: Jan 6
March
Last Class: Mar 3 & Post- Evaluations
Classes are on Wednesdays at 3:00 PM
Have additional questions about the program or want to check if you qualify? Fill out the form and we’ll get back to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
A 12-week, hybrid program built on learning about your body and how to use it more efficiently through specific sensory cues while building strong foundations. In-person and online group classes focus on movements related to gait, balance, and mobility.
-
Most exercise programs focus on treating symptoms after they show up. PPP takes a different approach — helping you build a strong foundation in gait, balance, and mobility early, while you're still newly navigating your diagnosis. Rather than waiting to address challenges as they arise, you'll learn how your body works now, so you're better equipped to adapt as things change. Being proactive means staying ahead — not behind — your movement.
-
PPP is a pilot program — meaning this is the first time it's being offered, and we're using it to study how effective this approach is before expanding further.
A small group of 15 allows for personalized attention and more accurate results as we evaluate the program's impact.
We're focusing on those newly diagnosed or in the early stages of Parkinson's (Hoehn & Yahr Stage 1–2, regardless of when diagnosed) because this is often when people are actively looking for guidance on how to move forward — building strong movement foundations early can make a meaningful difference as you continue navigating your diagnosis. As PPP grows, we hope to expand and offer it to more of the Parkinson's community. -
Movement isn't just about muscles — it's about how your brain and body communicate. Throughout the program, you'll learn to use three key systems that help you move better.
What you see — your eyes help guide your steps, judge distance, and navigate your surroundings, especially on uneven ground or in busy spaces.
What you feel — your body has built-in sensors that tell you where your limbs are and how you're moving, even without looking. We'll help you sharpen this awareness.
Where your head is — your inner ear helps you stay balanced and oriented, whether you're standing still or on the move.
By learning to use these systems together, you'll build stronger gait, balance, and mobility — skills that carry into everyday life, not just the studio.
-
Most exercise classes focus on repetition — get your body moving, build strength, follow along. PPP takes a different approach. Instead of just doing movements, you're learning why your body moves the way it does — using sensory cues to understand gait, balance, and mobility from the inside out.
-
Both. PPP is a hybrid program — group classes are offered virtually and in-person, with one private session tailored to you.
-
No. This program meets you where you are, whether you're new to structured movement or already active.
-
PPP is completely free — this pilot program is fully funded through a Community Grant from the Parkinson's Foundation.
-
Space is limited to 15 participants, to ensure everyone gets focused, individualized attention.
-
All in-person sessions take place at the studio: 4809 N. Ravenswood Ave, Suite 119, Chicago, IL 60640.n
-
Reach out directly by phone, text, or email and we'll walk you through next steps.
(270) 427-8874
tcemberton@gmail.com