A MAN from Gourock who has lived with the impact of Parkinson’s disease for the past five years says joining a dance group has given him a whole new lease of life.

David Souza has praised a pioneering weekly class at the Beacon Arts Centre which helps him manage his condition by giving him regular exercise and the chance to meet new people.

Greenock Telegraph:

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world, and around 12,400 people in Scotland have a diagnosis of the condition, for which there is currently no cure. World Parkinson’s Day take places on Thursday and this year the organisers are highlighting the benefits of exercise and movement.

David was diagnosed at the age of 71, after he noticed he was moving more slowly and struggling with his balance and co-ordination.

His Parkinson’s nurse recommended the class at the Beacon, which is accompanied by live piano music, to help him exercise and meet new people.

The classes help to develop confidence and creativity, while also using dance to address specific issues associated with Parkinson’s, such as balance, co-ordination, gait and flexibility.

Greenock Telegraph:

The weekly sessions also tackle social isolation and loneliness, and each class is followed by tea, cake and a chat.

The programme is a joint initiative between Scottish Ballet and the Dance Base charity, with the Beacon.

David, 76, said: “I had no experience of dance before, it was completely new to me but I felt very comfortable.

“The classes give me an incentive to exercise in a friendly situation. It is easy not to bother but exercise is certainly helpful for me.

“I particularly enjoy that the classes take place to live piano music. The music is beautiful – it is like having a concert every week. It is a real privilege to listen to.

“Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s was a bit of a shock. I started to slow down and fall behind with things. I was out for a walk with the Inverclyde Ramblers and I suddenly found I was leaning to one side. Meeting other people with Parkinson’s helps.

“The classes are having an impact. It is a gradual thing. I am trying to keep exercising as much as I can, and I love meeting new people. The tea and biscuits are a good part of my week.”

Dance for Parkinson’s classes take place at the Greenock venue on Tuesdays at 1pm and cost just £5 per session.

Karen Townsend, creative producer at the Beacon, said: “Our Dance for Parkinson’s classes are a huge part of the Beacon’s mission to light up lives in Inverclyde. We all experience the joy and vitality in the group, which is always welcoming, friendly and positive."

Greenock Telegraph:

She added: “David’s story, and our experience every week, shows that it is clear that dance brings huge benefits to people living with Parkinson’s and we are committed to offering these vital opportunities to as many people as we can.

“We have seen how taking part in the class and the social café addresses the social isolation many of the dancers experienced after their diagnosis and has become a vital part of their and their family's weekly routine.

“We welcome anyone who is interested or thinks it may be of benefit to them or a family member to visit a class or the social café post class.”

For more information about the classes, or to book, visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk