Fighting Parkinson’s Together
July 23, 2025
At Residences at Vantage Point, we are always looking for meaningful ways to support our residents. That’s why fighting Parkinson’s together has become more than just a mission — it’s a movement. Through initiatives like Moving Day Baltimore and Punches for Parkinson’s, our community continues to raise awareness, build strength, and offer hope to those living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Parkinson’s Moving Day: Stepping Up for Change
On Saturday, June 7, our team proudly took part in Moving Day Baltimore at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. For the fourth year in a row, Residences at Vantage Point served as an event sponsor — and this year was our biggest yet. We had a record 21 team members, including residents, staff, family members and Rock Steady Boxing participants. Together, we raised an impressive $2,069 for the Parkinson’s Foundation. Collectively, the Baltimore event brought in over $126,000, exceeding its goal of $110,000 with 50 teams participating.
Vivian Smith, our Fitness Manager, called it “one of the most empowering and enriching programs we have for people with Parkinson’s.” Meanwhile, Mary Ruth Alter, team member and resident, shared her deeply personal motivation:
“Punches for Parkinson’s and Moving Day are my ways of honoring my husband Bill and his valiant fight against that disease. As we learn more about the causes and the genetic connection, I feel I’m fighting for my children and grandchildren too. As a caregiver, I know that no one should have to contend with Parkinson’s Disease.”
Clearly, the walk represents far more than fundraising. It’s about community, remembrance, strength and fighting Parkinson’s together.
Punches for Parkinson’s: Building Awareness One Punch at a Time
Another powerful initiative led by Vivian Smith is our in-house campaign, Punches for Parkinson’s. Vivian started this awareness effort to inspire more participation in our Rock Steady Boxing class, which is tailored to individuals with Parkinson’s. The campaign kicked off during Parkinson’s Awareness Month in April. Each Friday throughout the year, residents and staff come to the fitness center to throw punches—literally—at heavy bags and speed bags. Many participants average 100 punches.
Vivian’s goal is both simple and ambitious: One million punches by year-end to represent each of the one million people living with Parkinson’s. The event continues once per month, building momentum and community spirit.
When asked what she hopes participants take away from Punches for Parkinson’s, Vivian didn’t hesitate:
“Whatever they can do to stay strong, to stay healthy — just do it!”
Why Fighting Parkinson’s Together Matters
Programs like Moving Day and Punches for Parkinson’s demonstrate the power of community. Moreover, they offer residents a chance to stay active, build awareness and fight for a future with fewer challenges.
We believe in fighting Parkinson’s together—not just during special events, but every single day. Whether it’s walking with purpose or punching with passion, our residents continue to show what strength looks like.
To learn more about our Parkinson’s programs or to support our ongoing campaign, please contact our Fitness Center or visit our Moving Day Team Page.
Let’s keep moving. Let’s keep punching. Let’s keep fighting Parkinson’s together.