West Dundee family unites against Parkinson’s with Moving Day Chicago on Oct. 5
West Dundee resident Tony Saviano has been living with Parkinson’s disease for more than two decades. For nearly 17 years, the disease progressed slowly, but in 2019, Tony’s symptoms intensified.
Today, Tony experiences movement symptoms, such as tremor, and struggles with low blood pressure, which can significantly impede his daily activities. Additionally, Tony endures non-motor PD symptoms like hallucinations.
Tony’s four daughters and his wife of over 50 years, Darlene, play an active role in his care. His daughters rotate, joining Tony and Darlene at doctor’s appointments and also help manage his complicated schedule of medications. His daughter, Sharon Bending, has been his fitness trainer for many years.
Tony’s daughters manage an Instagram account, @TonyvsPD, which today has nearly 500 followers; here they share his journey, showcase how he uses exercise to manage his Parkinson’s symptoms, and inspire and connect with others living with the disease.
From Tai Chi and rowing to boxing and CrossFit, Tony has always been active and has further embraced physical activity to fight back against Parkinson’s.
For people with Parkinson’s, exercise is a vital component to maintaining balance, mobility, and activities of daily living. Research has shown that exercise can slow the progression of the disease and improve Parkinson’s symptoms.
In support of the community and to raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation, Tony and his family and friends will participate as “Tony vs PD” in Moving Day Chicago on Sunday, Oct. 5, in Chicago’s Lincoln Park.
The Saviano family’s story is an example of resilience, love, and community uniting in the face a difficult diagnosis. As Parkinson’s continues to affect nearly one million Americans, the Saviano’s efforts demonstrate what families can achieve together, how exercise can help reduce symptoms, and how resources like the Parkinson’s Foundation can make a difference.
For more information about Parkinson’s disease, visit parkinson.org and to support the Moving Day walk, visit movingdaychicago.org.