North River Family YMCA Bike-a-Thon supports Parkinson’s programs

February 24, 2025

The North River Family YMCA is wrapping up its three-day Bike-a-Thon Monday evening, an event designed to raise vital funds for the Y’s Parkinson’s programming. This year’s Bike-a-Thon aims to support several key initiatives, including the “Peddling for Parkinson’s” program, which provides those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease the opportunity to ride stationary bikes, an activity shown to help alleviate symptoms of the disease.

Much of the enthusiasm behind the Bike-a-Thon can be attributed to Brielle Leary, who oversees the YMCA’s Healthy Living Community. According to Leary, the community’s generosity and participation have been instrumental in reaching this year’s fundraising goal of $18,000. Right now, they have raised about one-third of the funds needed.

The funds raised will help continue offering free programs to those living with Parkinson’s.

“We have quite a few people who are nervous about participating, especially those who are just diagnosed, but for them to be able to come out and actually be able to view the programs and see not just how the class is structured but the comradery with the participants, it makes them really want to join,” said Leary.

In addition to “Peddling for Parkinson’s,” the funds raised from the Bike-a-Thon also support the YMCA’s “Rock Steady Boxing” program. This unique initiative helps individuals with Parkinson’s disease improve their range of motion, flexibility, and posture, offering them a way to fight back against the physical challenges the disease presents.

“We do have a support group that also meets on the last Friday of every month andthat is open to everyone in the community,” said Leary.

While the Bike-a-Thon officially ends at 7 p.m. Monday, donations are still being accepted to support the YMCA’s ongoing efforts to provide free programs for those living with Parkinson’s.

To donate, you can email the YMCA, just click here.

Or you can call the North River Family YMCA at (423) 877-3517.

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