Recently, our Pickleball Changes Lives community member Terence Degnan shared his experience of using pickleball to manage his battle with parkinsons. So inspiring is Terence’s story that the he’ll receive a Community Heroes award at the APP New York City Open 2024.
Terence’s journey with pickleball, offers hope and inspiration to 6 million plus parkinsons sufferers on the planet. This is his story, highlighting the incredible community that has supported him every step of the way.
Table of Contents
Before Pickleball
Confronting the Unknown
After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Terence’s biggest fears and anxieties stemmed from the unknown. Mr. Degnan was most afraid of the impact the disease would have on his loved ones in the future.
At the time, he was also dealing with his father’s death and his daughter’s frequent illnesses. When his daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease, it was a relief compared to his wildest suspicions.
This fear of the unknown is a common thread among those facing serious diagnoses. For our friend, it was about worrying how Parkinson’s would affect the quality of life for his loved ones.
A New Outlook on Life
Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s didn’t change Terence’s glass half full attitude to life. The way he sees it “you can either succumb to despair, or embrace what you’ve been missing.” He chose the latter, and we’re thrilled he did. Parkinson’s drew him fully into his physical body, making even mundane tasks like tying his shoes or doing crossword puzzles both challenging and comical.
This shift brought an unexpected humor and joy into his life, despite the obvious difficulties.
Recommendations from the Doctor
Initially, Degnan’s’s doctor recommended general exercise to manage his symptoms. Skeptical but open-minded, he followed the doc’s advice. The professional with shambolic handwriting suggested a regimen of anaerobic workouts for Terence. These ranged from activities providing dopamine boosts to exercises prompting consistent endorphin releases.
Boxing was one option, but having spent his childhood throwing punches, it didn’t appeal to the good natured fellow. Pickleball, however, turned out to be the silver bullet. He now plays three hours a day, rain or shine, and the benefits are undeniable.
Discovering Pickleball
Initial Hesitation
At first, Terence was hesitant to try pickleball. It seemed like a fad, almost cult-like in its rapid spread. After trying it once, he realized it was indeed a kind of cult—but a highly beneficial one, and far less toxic.
Now, it’s something he wholeheartedly embraces and advocates for. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on an incredibly fun and therapeutic experience.
The Power of Community
A Network of Support
Pickleball has significantly helped manage Terence’s Parkinson’s symptoms. Beyond the physical benefits, it has provided a crucial social outlet.
When a large tournament was held at CityPickle to benefit the Michael J. Fox Foundation, people from all walks of life approached Terence, sharing how his story inspired them to take up pickleball.
Whether they were dealing with Parkinson’s, PTSD, manic-depressive disorder, or Alzheimer’s, the common thread was the positive impact of this sport.
Emotional and Mental Well-being
The social aspect of pickleball cannot be overstated. Parkinson’s, like many serious illnesses, can isolate individuals, making the symptoms feel even more overwhelming.
Engaging with the pickleball community introduced Terence to hundreds of supportive individuals. This sense of belonging and the loud, vocal support from his new friends have been instrumental in keeping his spirits high.
The Role of Community
Debates about pickleballs, shoes, and paddles are now a regular part of Terence’s life. These seemingly trivial discussions bring joy and connection.
He even found sponsorship through Gearbox, whose Pro Power Elongated paddle is a game-changer on the court. The community aspect of pickleball has provided Terence with a new sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Winning the “Community Heroes” Award
Receiving the “Community Heroes” award felt surreal for Terence. In his view, the real heroes are those who support people with Parkinson’s and other conditions—whether they work at foundations like the Michael J. Fox Foundation, or they are the spouses, friends, and strangers who provide daily support.
This award has helped promote the visibility of pickleball and its benefits, and that’s why Terence accepted it.
Looking Forward: The Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open
A Major Event
The Big Apple welcomes the APP Tour from May 21st – 26th for the 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open, a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket event featuring AARP Champions and Masters divisions.
This second major of 2024 promises to be an exciting gathering for pickleball enthusiasts from around the world.
Community and Connection
Terence is particularly excited about the event, not just for the competition but for the opportunity to meet more people who share his passion. The APP Tour in New York City is more than a tournament; it’s a celebration of community and connection.
Between Central Park, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Broadway, participants will have plenty to explore during their downtime.
Broadcast Information
For those who can’t attend in person, the event will be broadcast on multiple platforms. Here’s the schedule:
- Friday, May 24 | 1:30 – 5 pm | APPTV (YouTube)
- Friday, May 24 | 6 – 8 pm | CBS Sports Network
- Saturday, May 25 | 2 – 6 pm | APPTV (YouTube)
- Saturday, May 25 | 7 – 9 pm | FS1
- Sunday, May 26 | 10:00 am – 1:30 pm | APPTV (YouTube)
- Sunday, May 26 | 2:30 – 4:30 pm | FS1
Join the Fun
General Admission entry is free! No tickets are required to experience the Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open event. Join us Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for three days of exciting themes and unforgettable matches.
Future Goals
Raising Awareness
With over six million people diagnosed with Parkinson’s worldwide, and many more undiagnosed, Terence sees vast potential for pickleball to make a difference.
He is committed to spreading the word about this sport and its benefits. His stubbornness, in this case, is a virtue, driving him to reach as many people as possible.
Continuing to Inspire
Terence plans to continue inspiring others through tournaments and engagement with various foundations. His goal is to put a pickleball in every stocking and bring this sport to the forefront of Parkinson’s management.
Looking Forward to the APP Tour
Terence is particularly excited about the APP tour coming to Flushing Meadows. He looks forward to the food, the women’s matches, and meeting more people in the pickleball world.
Watching the women’s matches, with their explosive gameplay, is a highlight for him. He also hopes to find new opportunities within the sport, possibly as an instructor or manager at one of the new facilities popping up.
Conclusion
Pickleball has truly changed Terence’s life. It’s more than just a sport—it’s a community, a source of joy, and a powerful tool for managing Parkinson’s. To anyone battling this disease or any other, he urges you to give pickleball a try. It might just change your life too.
And unto them was born a pickleball. Go forth, ye of picklefaith, and multiply. It’ll save a life, strange as that really sounds. Join our Pickleball Changes Lives group to share your life altering experience with a supportive and fun global community.
