U-Turn Parkinson’s has opened a new centre at Winnipeg’s Southdale Community Centre, offering free exercise and rehabilitation classes for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor joined the celebration, continuing his role as an ambassador for the cause. Supported by donations, the centre provides up to 20 weekly classes, helping participants improve mobility, mood, and quality of life.
Winnipeg Jets Help Celebrate Opening of New U-Turn Parkinson’s Centre in Winnipeg
A new facility dedicated to supporting people living with Parkinson’s disease officially opened its doors Friday at the Southdale Community Centre — with help from Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor.
The centre, operated by U-Turn Parkinson’s, provides exercise and rehabilitation programs designed to improve the lives of people affected by the illness. The new space will allow the organization to offer up to 20 classes per week, including dance and Tai Chi sessions tailored to support mobility, balance, and overall well-being.
Connor, who has served as an ambassador for U-Turn Parkinson’s for the past two seasons, attended the opening event to show his continued support. Both his father and grandfather had Parkinson’s, making the cause deeply personal.
“It affects a lot of people, and it’s not just the person with Parkinson’s, but their family members and everybody,” said Connor. “To be able to create a centre like this, it gives a sense of community. People can work on themselves and get better. It’s awesome to see.”
U-Turn Parkinson’s aims to provide its programs free of charge, funded through monthly donations. According to program manager Jordana Donnelly, the benefits of these classes can be life-changing.
“Everything from minimizing their tremors to improving their sleep to just improving their mood — there are lots of ways that exercise can be beneficial to someone living with Parkinson’s,” said Donnelly.
The Winnipeg Jets have also shown strong support for the cause, hosting Parkinson’s Awareness Games for the past two seasons, with this year’s event scheduled for April 11.
For more information about U-Turn Parkinson’s programs, events, and ways to contribute, visit uturnparkinsons.org.
