All Home Care Matters and our host, Lance A. Slatton were honored to welcome the team from Rock Steady Boxing as guests to the show.
About Ryan Cotton, President/CEO:
Ryan Cotton currently serves as President & CEO for Rock Steady Boxing. His involvement with the organization started in 2009 when he served on the Board of Directors for a decade. Although he serves all RSB boxers around the world, his favorite RSB boxer was his father who was a Parkinson’s fighter until his last days.
Ryan’s Education is in physical Therapy where he had a 22-year clinical career before moving into his role at RSB. He holds a Masters in Physical Therapy from the University of Evansville, and a Doctorate in Health Science from the University of Indianapolis.
About Chris Timberlake, Director of Education & Training Rock Steady Boxing:
Chris has been with Rock Steady since 2006 and currently serves as the Director of Training and Education at RSB developing and delivering training in the RSB method to new coaches around the world. She is a caregiver to Tom, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2000, and understands all too well the needs of people struggling with Parkinson’s.
Having trained hundreds of people with Parkinson’s as well as being immersed as a care partner has given Chris a uniquely intimate perspective on how to battle this disease. She is a Certified Personal Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine and her personal experience is an instrumental part of Rock Steady’s “Cornerman” support.
About Sandra Benton, RSB Boxer, Retired business owner and hairstylist:
Sandra Benton was a business owner for 48 years working as a hairstylist and retiring at age 67. She was diagnosed with PD in April of 2023 and started RSB in July of that year.
About Jim Lindgren, RSB Boxer, Retired reporter and editor:
Jim Lindgren had a career as a newspaper reporter and editor for 25 years before becoming an editor for a market research company and retiring 2 years ago at age 66. He was diagnosed with PD at the age of 61.
About Rock Steady Boxing (RSB):
Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with Parkinson disease through a specialized, non-contact boxing-based fitness program developed to specifically address the symptoms of Parkinson disease. Founded in Indianapolis in 2006, RSB is built on the belief that individuals with Parkinson’s can fight back against the progression of their disease through rigorous, targeted Exercise
The RSB program is multimodal and incorporates boxing techniques, strength training, balance work, and cognitive challenges to address the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. Backed by growing evidence that high-intensity exercise can slow symptom progression, RSB has become a leader in exercise-based approaches to managing the disease.
Today, Rock Steady Boxing supports a global network of more than 800 affiliate programs that deliver its training in local communities, including gyms, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations. Through comprehensive coach training, ongoing education, and a strong support system, RSB ensures that its programs are accessible, adaptable, and effective for individuals at all stages of Parkinson’s. Beyond physical improvements, the organization fosters a powerful sense of community and empowerment among participants, helping them build confidence, connection, and resilience.
As it continues to expand its reach, Rock Steady Boxing remains committed to its mission of enabling people with Parkinson’s to live healthier, more active lives.
