"I joined the Good Moves for PD class because I wanted to add more movement to my week in addition to and with different moves than Rock Steady Boxing, which I do 3 times a week. Also the location is very convenient. 

I used to love dancing but haven’t been dancing in a while. I didn’t think I was very musical or had much rhythm even before PD. I didn’t know what to expect from the class. From the first I was inspired by the soft welcoming vibe and gentle rhythms of the class as well as the fun dance improvisations. The class gives me a good relaxed feeling and awakened physicality to carry around for the rest of my day and week. I really enjoy the class and it’s inspiring me to add more dance and  new practices like Pilates to my schedule. I will definitely recommend this to the PD community as a nice addition." 

"I recently enrolled in an in-person “Dance for PD” class offered by Spirit Rising. I strongly endorse the program for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. While I had some difficulty executing the dance movements and keeping in sync with the music, I felt my participation had significant benefits including:

• mental engagement; i.e., connecting the mind and body
• increased mobility and flexibility, safely performed
• the uplifting effects of the music
• the social interaction with other participants and recognizing that others are
• confronting similar health challenges
• general therapeutic benefits"

"I won’t let Parkinson’s Disease control my life, so I’m always in pursuit of interesting ways to keep moving.   Word of mouth led me to “Spirit Rising Dance”/“Good Moves for PD” and the incredible Candace. 

Since beginning, I can’t wait for Thursdays to roll around.   The class is so much fun and it makes me feel as if I can someday regain my balance.   I feel like my gait and posture have improved.  The music we move to during each class brings me back to younger days and easy movement.  And Candace is so patient and motivating; she has certainly created a magical experience. The volunteers are wonderful as well.  It’s a very welcoming environment."     

"I met Candace this past year and have attended two of her Dance programs supporting Parkinson’s disease. Although I have no dance background whatsoever, I felt compelled to enroll after hearing hear speak about the program during a virtual presentation, where her energy, enthusiasm, creativity, dedication, and supportive approach became evident.

It’s been a privilege observing Candace combine uplifting but also specific therapeutic sessions, meeting the needs of the participants both physically and emotionally.  As a gifted teacher, creative leader, and role model she enriches the lives of individuals living with Parkinson’s, and her programs strengthen our community.  She deserves support in her efforts."

"I have forged a wonderful bond with Candace, who has been a bright light of hope and inspiration. Her solid professionalism, care, and concern for the class members is a beacon. She indeed has a winning communicative ability as a teacher and thus tailors her instruction so everyone is active and participatory.

Candace has helped to keep my eyes on the prize of health and well being via the transformative power of music and dance. I would wholeheartedly recommend her as a dance instructor. She is a veritable treasure."

"Candace makes everyone feel cared for, and always knows the right thing to say to make us feel welcome.  It feels like a community with the understanding that everyone has issues.  She knows just what to to do to help us and make our classes fun!"