City Manager's Annual Report Annual Report 2018 | A Year In Review | Page 52

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Fighting to Help Those with Parkinson’s
Last year, the department’s Fitness Center staff responded proactively to overwhelming
requests for specialized services by our members and guests. Numerous residents and
visitors alike to both of the City’s Fitness Centers inquired as to whether we could provide
services for those afflicted with a Parkinson’s Disease prognosis. The Rock Steady Boxing
Program empowers those with Parkinson’s Disease to “fight back,” and provides participants
with instruction on building strength and confidence while reducing the symptoms of
Parkinson’s Disease that impairs speech, balance and motor skills.
In response to that, Fitness Center staff members, Anne Stadius, Steve Levy and Maureen
Marchand, rose to the challenge and were determined to provide services to our requesting
members. As a team, they supported by the City Fitness Center staff, and worked together
to offer this innovative and popularly-received fitness program to the City.
All three are certified instructors in the Rock Steady Boxing Program. The program launched
in December 2018, and is offered at the Port St. Lucie Parks & Recreation Civic Center.
Potential participants who would like more information should call 772-807-4499.
HELPING WITHOUT HESITATION
While returning to work after lunch, Michael Villanti and David Schoen
were traveling along Port St. Lucie Blvd. As they approached the
intersection of PSL and Cameo Boulevards, they saw a vehicle hit the
curb, crash into the guardrail and flip on its side. Without hesitation both
Parks & Rec employees sprang into action to assist. Two other “Good
Samaritans” ran to the scene of the accident and, through the teamwork
of the four, they were able to pry the vehicle doors open, which freed the
three terrified teenagers. Mike and David waited with the young people
until law enforcement/rescue arrived.
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CITY OF PORT ST. LUCIE 2018 ANNUAL REPORT