Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Congressman Brian Higgins joined local veterans, trainers and those diagnosed with Parkinson's disease to announce Boxing Therapy for Parkinson's Access Act of 2022 in Kenmore on Monday.
The bill, introduced by Congressman Higgins and Congressman Darin LaHood, requires the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide coverage for therapeutic boxing classes for veterans diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and other disorders involving movement.
930,000 Americans are effected by Parkinson's. Approximately 110,000 of those are veterans. Each year, it costs the United States economy about $52 billion dollars in care.
"Local veterans currently participating in a privately funded program through the VA are seeing very very good results," said Congressman Higgins. "Boxing therapy is improving their mobility and helping them move more independently. The Boxing Therapy for Parkinson's Access Act will ensure that all veterans have access to this therapy to slow the progress of this disease and help them reclaim their lives for Parkinson's disease and improve the quality of life. We owe veterans that and much much more."
"To the best of our knowledge, this is the first stand-alone related to Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Patrick Welch, a retired Marine and Vietnam War veteran. "It is a presumptive disease. Most of the time they provide us with medication, not much else. Parkinson's Boxing and Boxing therapy is a life-changing exercise program that enhances our daily quality of life. It has remarkable and immeasurable results."
"Our program, once implemented will give many veterans freedom from wheelchairs, canes and walkers. This program has proven itself effective in improving movement disorders, depression and quality of life for the participants, which in turn improves the quality of life for the caregivers," said owner of Parkinson's Boxing, Dean Eoannou. "Our data shows that we can reduce falls 87% the first six months after implementation. I think working with the VA is a great next step in helping improve the quality of life for our veterans who are willing to sacrifice everything for our country and now with this bill we can give something back."
The Parkinson's Boxing now has a location open in Hamburg.
Former Congressman Jack Quinn was in attendance at the conference and gave his testimony, "I was on about 18 pills at one point and now my doctor will tell you we're down to about six. That not only saves me from getting off those types of pills but saves the VA money for that prescription. I came out here with Jeff immediately and we had the trainers take a hold of us and get us situated in the right place and as you can see, as a person, I'm not talking as a congressman, but as a patient, with my friends who are on these machines, you see results."
For the full conference, check the player below:
