Six months ago we spoke to Kristen Gray, who was leading a fundraiser to bring a boxing program to Jacksonville for those suffering from Parkinson’s Disease. Monday, January 9th, the hard work paid off, with Rock Steady Boxing trainer and 3 time Light Weight champion, Nate Campbell leading his first class.
On day one, nine brave and hopeful pioneers came to punch out Parkinson’s! The second day of class – Friday, January 13th – brought in the 9 original fighters, plus 3 more! In just one week they have begun to make a difference in the lives of 12 people fighting this disease!
The Rock Steady boxing program is geared towards those of any age and at any stage with Parkinson’s who want to generate physical and mental strength while fighting this degenerative disease.
ROCK STEADY JACKSONVILLE CLASSES:
Anyone interested is invited to come and watch a class, cheer on the fighters, and jump in the ring when ready! Rock Steady Boxing classes are offered on Mondays and Fridays from 10:30-11:45 at The Jacksonville Muay Thai Gym at 14333 Beach Blvd., in the Big Lots shopping center near the San Pablo intersection.
All January classes are free! They offer wraps and gloves for anyone to borrow, as well as a new set of Everlast gloves in their own glove bag for easy carrying at just $25. For more information, please feel free to contact Giles Wiley at 904-864-7343 or Kristen Gray at 404-229-8217, or check out their website – https://www.rsbjax.org/.
ROCK STEADY BOXING STILL NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT:
With the program growing so quickly, they are in need of compassionate volunteers for each class that will add enthusiasm and an extra layer of safety for our boxers. If anyone is interested in joining in the fight just one time or on a regular basis, please contact Kristen Gray at 404-229-8217 to schedule a volunteer opportunity.
All the initial financial support has allowed Gray and her supporters to bring the Rock Steady Program to Jacksonville, and they are all so grateful. Additional funds are needed to keep the program fees down for all of our fighters. If anyone is interested in offering support to this amazing program with a donation, please visit our crowd funding website (https://www.crowdrise.com/fundraise-and-volunteer/donations/rock-steady-boxing-for-parkinsons-in-jacksonville-fl/justingay1)
WHAT’S NEXT FOR ROCK STEADY JACKSONVILLE?
Three more people are going to Indiana for Rock Steady Boxing training at the beginning of February and one other person in March, giving them a total of 5 trainers to help knockout Parkinson’s in Jacksonville! They are working on establishing the program as a non-profit and shooting for the stars in hopes they can make a big impact on the Parkinson’s community here in Jacksonville!
After the February training, they will officially become one of over 300 Rock Steady Boxing affiliates! In 2016 this program’s overwhelming success lead it to increase from just 75 to 300 affiliates in one year’s time! For more information on Rock Steady Boxing, visit www.rocksteadyboxing.org.
