History – Parkinson en mouvement (PEM) 

In 2007, two friendly Montreal neighbours, one a dance therapist and the other a community activist diagnosed with PD, co-founded Parkinson en mouvement (PEM). In a visionary move, Joanabbey Sack and Sarah Humphrey, set up an adapted dance-movement class for people in their neighbourhood living with Parkinson’s disease. The aim of PEM was simple; namely, make people living with Parkinson’s Disease feel better. The program integrated components of dance, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and dance therapy. Music completed the experience. The dance-movement classes proved to be an excellent, enjoyable, safe way for people with PD to improve their mobility, flexibility, balance and overall outlook on life.

Almost two decades and hundreds of participants later, PEM continues to innovate and grow in reputation and size. Classes are given on-line or in-person several times weekly, not only in downtown Montréal, but also in other districts in Montréal, Laval and beyond. Both Joanabbey and Sarah are still very much engaged with PEM. What a legacy they have left for us!