JKV Champions Parkinson’s Disease Awareness & Support
At John Knox Village (JKV) in Pompano Beach, Florida, Parkinson’s Disease (PD) awareness isn’t just acknowledged, it is embraced, supported, and woven into the fabric of campus life.
From specialized fitness programming and resident-led support groups to educational events and community fundraisers, the award-winning Life Plan Continuing Care retirement community has created a robust network of resources for residents living with Parkinson’s Disease and those who love them.
Walking Together for a Cause
JKV hosted an “I Walk for Parkinson’s” fundraiser on January 15, 2026, raising more than $5,000 for the Parkinson’s Foundation and inspiring over 100 walkers to circle scenic Lake Maggie at the heart of the campus.
Participants gathered in the Village Centre Auditorium, where residents and staff members listened to Jennifer De Gruccio, MBA, from the Parkinson’s Foundation on an informative presentation and JKV Fitness Manager, Erik Nentoras, led an energetic warm-up.
Sponsored by the JKV Foundation, the LGBT Network at JKV, The JKV Rotary, and the JKV Fitness Team, The Walk was a true campus-wide collaboration.
Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas teaches PWR! Moves class at JKV
Specialized Fitness That Makes a Difference
Erik, a licensed PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery) instructor, leads multiple Parkinson’s-specific fitness classes each week, including PWR! Moves and PD Punch! boxing. These evidence-based programs help improve balance, mobility, mood, and overall quality of life for participants.
Erik notes that he has seen a noticeable increase in residents developing Parkinson’s symptoms in recent years. Fortunately, research consistently shows that regular exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing PD. Exercise can help alleviate symptoms, enhance sleep quality, and may even improve medication effectiveness by supporting better absorption.
Strength in Support and Shared Experience
Resident Becky Bewersdorf, whose husband, Bill, has Parkinson’s, runs the monthly PD Support Group and PD Coffee Chats for people experiencing PD and those who care for them.
Becky states: “The support groups have become invaluable to us. We’ve made friends and learned the value of knowing we’re not alone. When one person mentioned sleep disturbances and falling out of bed, suddenly several others had experienced the same thing. No one had talked about it before—but now, no one is embarrassed to share.
These groups make everyone feel better knowing they are not alone. Parkinson’s is different for every individual, yet so many symptoms overlap. My Bill isn’t quite the extrovert I am, so he appreciates that I’ve taken the bull by the horns. I consider these ‘my peeps,’ and I truly try to reach out to everyone.”
Becky Bewersdorf and Bill Mahlburg
About PWR! Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery
PWR! Moves targets skills known to deteriorate in people with PD—often leading to loss of mobility and function. The exercises can be performed in any position, modified for different ability levels, and progressively increased in both physical and cognitive challenge. This individualized approach helps participants mitigate symptoms and rebuild functional movement.
Parkinson’s Disease by the Numbers
• Over 1 million people in the U.S. currently live with PD
• Approximately 90,000 new cases are diagnosed annually
• By 2030, the U.S. PD population is expected to reach 1.2 million
• In 2021, there were 11.77 million cases worldwide
• Most diagnoses occur after age 50, though 5–10% are diagnosed earlier
• Men are more likely to develop PD than women
• PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, following Alzheimer’s disease
More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade
For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.
JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 EMTs and security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.
Ready to Make Your Move?
At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.
To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.
