Guest column: 'Pedal and Roll' event helps Parkinson's patients

Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous-system disorder that develops gradually, often starting with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand. Tremor is the most well-known symptom, but the disorder also causes speech difficulties and a slowing or stopping of movement. More than 1 million people in the United States have the disease, and there is no cure.

In late September, I attended a "Pedal and Roll" cycling event for people with Parkinson's disease. The event was held at Cleary Lake Regional Park near Prior Lake, and 180 people participated -- including dozens of volunteers who lent a hand to those afflicted with Parkinson's, and who served water, pastries and fresh fruit. Mother Nature cooperated by dialing up an autumn day of sunshine, mild temperatures and gentle breezes. Good cheer filled the park.

The event was designed to convince participants with the disease that cycling is one of the most enjoyable, safe and effective exercises for them. Pedal and Roll provided tandems, recumbents and a five-person Quintette cycle for them to ride.

The Quintette was clearly the star attraction. It was donated by San Francisco artist Eric Staller and is one of several models designed by Staller (conferencebike.com). The cycle turned many heads as it repeatedly circled the park's 3 1/2-mile path. On each circuit, four different people with Parkinson's sat facing each other, and everyone pedaled. The fifth rider was a volunteer "captain" who steered and hand-operated the hydraulic brakes.

Liz Ogren, a sixth-grade teacher in the south metro, founded Pedal and Ride and organized the Cleary Lake Park event. The rest of this story is better told by this remarkable lady:

Jerry: What motivated you to create Pedal and Roll?

Liz: I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2007. I thought, "I have a movement disorder so I'd better just sit on the couch." Then one day I realized that wasn't the answer. I had always loved bicycling. I told my husband that I wanted to have a cycling ride for people with Parkinson's to show them that the disease is a lifestyle change, not the kiss of death. In case we made money -- we did: $5,000! -- I wanted it to benefit those with P.D. So I set up Pedal and Roll as a nonprofit with five board members.

L: Among others, my husband, brother Mike, board members and my college friend Hein de Hoog. Hein was a great go-to guy and was instrumental in getting the Quintette from San Francisco to Minnesota. The Park Nicollet Struthers Parkinson's Center helped by doing mailings and connecting me with support groups and doctors.

J: Any light moments in the process?

L: We rode the Quintette as soon as it arrived from San Francisco. A man in a sleek Mercedes pulled up and called out, "That is so cool! Where can I rent one? Can I take your picture?" I tossed him my camera. He snapped away, tossed the camera back to me, and gave us a Mercedes escort for a few blocks!

J: Have you benefited from cycling and other regular, vigorous exercise?

L: Definitely! I have more energy, better mood, and smoother, easier movement. Also, I have reduced my medication by 33 percent, thus extending the time that it will be effective.

L: The ride was very successful. Many people left with renewed hope and motivation to exercise regularly. Next year's ride will be on Sept. 22, again at Cleary Lake Park, which has friendly terrain and outstanding facilities. Our goal is to increase participation to 300 people.

J: What would you say to people with Parkinson's who have become couch potatoes?

L: Find someone you like to get you off the couch and get you moving. You will depend on each other to stay motivated, and begin to feel the benefits in just a few weeks. You may want to choose someone other than your spouse or partner, and that's OK.

J: How can people stay informed on Pedal and Roll's plans and donate to the cause?

L: Log on to www.pedaland roll.org. Those who want to donate three-wheeled cycles should e-mail me at liz@pedal androll.org.