Sean's Story: Finding Strength & Community Through Parkinson's Body & Mind
At the YMCA of Greenwich, we believe that staying active and connected can make all the difference—especially for those living with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease. One of the most inspiring examples of this is Sean Harrigan, a dedicated member who participates in our Parkinson’s Body & Mind program multiple times each week.
Sean first joined the program nearly five years ago, shortly after his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Since then, he’s become a regular presence in our boxing, tai chi, and other Parkinson's Body & Mind classes—and an enthusiastic advocate for others living with Parkinson’s.
“The program is extremely beneficial in two major respects,” Sean says. “Exercise, which helps slow the progression of Parkinson’s, and the opportunity to socialize with other folks and meet new people. That avoids situations where people fall into depression. Between exercise and socialize, the program offers anyone with PD a great deal.”'
The Parkinson’s Body & Mind program, offered free of charge to participants at the YMCA of Greenwich, combines specialized exercise classes with a monthly support group designed to improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being. Just as importantly, it creates a welcoming space where participants can share experiences and connect with others who understand their journey.
This program is made possible through our ongoing partnership with Parkinson’s Body & Mind, an organization dedicated to helping individuals with Parkinson’s live active, fulfilling lives through education, movement, and community support. Together, we’re proud to offer a space where participants can move, connect, and thrive.
Sean emphasizes that having Parkinson’s is both a mental and physical challenge. For him, it’s not only important to exercise regularly but also to socialize and connect with others who truly understand what it’s like to live with PD. He describes his approach as simple but powerful: exercise and socialize.
“I enjoy the exercise—it’s demanding, but it’s what’s required to help slow progression,” he explains. “And I enjoy socializing because it’s what’s required to avoid depression. You get the benefit of slowing progression with one and avoiding depression with the other.”
Sean has found that each class offers something different, depending on the day and how he feels. The program’s variety allows participants to choose what works best for them, whether it’s a gentle tai chi session or an energizing boxing class.
“There are days when I do tai chi to start and then finish with boxing—and I enjoy them both,” he says. “But there are other days when you come in and you’re not quite where you want to be, either in your head or your body. It depends on how I feel that day.”
Beyond the workouts, Sean has built meaningful friendships through the program—friendships that keep him coming back week after week. He takes pride in helping newcomers feel comfortable and supported when they first arrive.
“I go out of my way to welcome new people into the program when they come in,” he says. “I had to go through it five years ago—it’s pretty awkward, walking into a room when you don’t know anyone. So I introduce myself to new members, and every day we’re talking about something—maybe the Yankee game or an upcoming class. There’s plenty going on.”
Sean and his wife have also volunteered together through other YMCA initiatives, including our back-to-school shopping program, Running Start, which helps local families prepare for the school year. He says the experience reminded him of the broader mission of the Y, to strengthen community and give back.
“We had a great time,” he recalls. “It was fun to watch kids decide what items to buy, asking themselves, ‘Do I really need this?’ versus ‘Do I want it?’ We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly.”
For Sean, the message is simple: if you’re living with Parkinson’s, movement and connection matter.
“It doesn’t necessarily have to be the Greenwich Y, although I’m biased,” he laughs. “You’ve got a great group of people here. Parkinson’s Body & Mind has put a lot of resources into this, so if you’re part of the program, you benefit greatly. Get out and exercise. You’ll benefit physically—and you’ll also benefit from socializing with others.”
Support Programs Like This
At the YMCA of Greenwich, we’re proud to offer Parkinson’s Body & Mind and other chronic disease prevention programs free to participants—thanks to generous donors who support our Annual Giving Campaign each year. Your gift helps us continue to provide life-changing wellness opportunities for individuals managing Parkinson’s, diabetes, arthritis, and more.
Donate today to help keep these programs accessible to all.
If you or someone you know is living with Parkinson’s, we invite you to learn more about Parkinson’s Body & Mind and join our supportive community at the Y.