Rise and Rewire: Parkinson’s Bootcamp

Why a bootcamp?

Because the brain learns best with intensity, repetition, and consistency. Instead of waiting weeks to see results, an intensive approach jump-starts progress by challenging your body, voice, and mind every session. That means faster improvements, stronger carryover into daily life, and lasting brain change.

What makes Rise and Rewire unique?

Rise and Rewire: PD Bootcamp brings together a powerhouse team of clinicians with expertise in helping people with Parkinson’s Disease: a Board-Certified Neurological Clinical Specialist & PWR! Moves® Certified Physical Therapist, a Neurological Music Therapist, and a Speech-Language Pathologist certified in LSVT LOUD®. This collaboration targets movement, voice, and cognition all at once — helping you make real, lasting changes through neuroplasticity.

Why PWR! Moves® with a Physical Therapist?

PWR! Moves® is a Parkinson’s-specific exercise framework that targets Parkinson’s symptoms through functional, high-repetition exercises—helping your brain and body rewire for everyday activities. Physical therapists are movement experts who also understand the underlying pathophysiology of conditions such as Parkinson’s. Having your exercise led by a physical therapist means every movement in targeted specifically at PD related deficits and can be modified to keep you safe and help you get the most out of each exercise.

Why incorporate music therapy with exercise?

For people with conditions like Parkinson’s disease, the steady beat in music gives the brain a timing cue, making it easier to start, keep going, and stay steady while moving. Music can also be used to strengthen the voice and improve speech, helping people communicate more clearly and confidently. Over time, practicing movement and speech with music can help the brain build new pathways, which supports better mobility, stronger voices, and an overall improved quality of life.

How will speech therapy be incorporated?

While physical strength and movement are essential in Parkinson’s care, communication and cognition are equally important for maintaining independence and quality of life. By targeting voice, participants will practice speaking louder and clearer, making everyday conversations less frustrating and more successful. Cognitive challenges keep the brain active and adaptable, supporting memory, attention, and problem-solving. Together, these activities ensure participants leave the boot camp not only physically stronger but also more confident in their ability to connect, communicate, and thrive in daily life.

What are the educational wellness sessions?

We want to arm you with knowledge that will help you to live well with Parkinson’s. So not only are we giving you practice and tools to continue to reduce symptoms that cause changes in your movement, voice, and cognition, but we are also providing sessions based on wellness topics such as nutrition, mental health resiliency, and best recommendations for continuing to thrive with PD.

Wellness Topics Include:

• The Right Moves: Unlocking the Power of Exercise in PD

  • Led by Dr. Vanessa Kaczmarek, PT, DPT, NCS

• Fueling Your Body and Brain: Nutrition Basics for Parkinson’s

  • Led by Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Dr. Patrick Berner, PT, DPT, RDN

• Building Resilience: Confidence, Coping, and Mental Well-Being in Parkinson’s

  • Led by Dr. Casey Azuero, a board-certified Rehabilitation Psychologist who specializes in proving mental health support to people in the hospital and community adjusting to, and living with, chronic and disabling conditions

    and

    Cassandra Mondesir, Psy.D., a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at UAB Medicine. Her clinical interests focus on neuropsychology, and rehabilitation, with multicultural considerations embedded throughout her work. She is especially passionate about providing equitable, person-centered care for diverse patient populations.