Kim Cornilles is a Portland Rock Steady Boxing fighter and dancer who has had young onset Parkinson’s disease for 8 years. She recently completed her first tandem bike rally, and I asked her to share her experience.
“I have always loved riding bikes. In fact, I commuted to work for 15 years. When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, riding by myself became difficult. So I switched to a tandem bicycle with my husband Gary, who also loves to ride. We had gone on some short rides and had a lot of fun.”
“This year we decided to do our first tandem rally located not too far away in Albany, Oregon. Admittedly, as the event got closer, I was wondering if I could really do this. The first day was 65 miles, and I must say I felt like I didn’t have PD when I was on the bike. I felt that great! The second day was 62 miles, and I still felt great. The 3rd day was only 35 miles, and I felt like I could have done another 60… that is, if I had a different seat.”
“We’re looking forward to next year’s tandem rally in Idaho!”
What a great way for Kim and Gary to do something together that they both loved doing prior to Kim’s diagnosis. It is important to do things with your partner to bond and experience joy. Yay! Team Cornilles!!