Every April, Parkinson’s Awareness Month shines a light on the more than 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and many aspects of daily life. At UConn Health, we’re proud to care for hundreds of individuals navigating this journey, including Bristol resident David Swarts, who has become an advocate for living well in the face of a challenging diagnosis.
Swarts, now 79, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in September 2021. Like many, his journey began with subtle symptoms, tremors, balance changes, and eventually a loss of smell. Over time, the changes became more pronounced, but Swarts chose not to let the diagnosis define him.
“I have it, and I’m going to live for today, not worry about the future and how Parkinson’s will affect it,” he says. “There are things to think about, but not to worry about day in and day out.”
Swarts receives care from more than nine UConn Health providers, including his neurologist, Dr. Chindhuri Selvadurai, all of whom work together using a shared medical record system to stay coordinated on his care. It’s one of the many things Swarts values about UConn Health. “All my doctors can see each other’s notes. They know what’s going on, and that gives me confidence in the care I’m getting,” he says.
At UConn Health’s Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center at the Brain and Spine Institute Selvadurai and her colleagues diagnose and treat those with Parkinson’s.
“Early diagnosis can lead to better access to education, resources, and specialized treatments. Exercise is the best way to slow the progression of disease. Medications including oral and a new FDA approved injection are used to treat the symptoms and other options include exercise, physical therapy and occupational therapy,” says Selvadurai.
There is also brain stimulation surgery for patients with Parkinson’s disease. This has been proven to improve quality of life in patients, reduce medication burden, reduce the number of falls and symptom fluctuation.
We have a robust Parkinson’s disease (PD) clinic that provides multidisciplinary attention to patients and families living with PD. We offer social services, neurorehabilitation, and supportive care and planning services integrated into the same environment, allowing for continuity of care. The
In addition to managing Parkinson’s, David recently underwent a knee replacement at UConn Health and worked hard in physical therapy to regain strength. Now, he’s back at the gym several times a week through the Silver Fox program at the Bristol Senior Center. He uses the treadmill, rowing machine, and elliptical to stay active.
“Exercise is key,” Swarts says. “Just keep moving. That’s my motto.”
He’s also trying new medications and staying involved in the Parkinson’s community. Last week, he attended a local support group where he performed a humorous skit and shared a booklet he wrote on life with Parkinson’s.
“Seeing others at different stages helped me reflect on my own progress,” he says. “It’s important to stay connected and keep a sense of humor.”
One of Swarts biggest motivations? His family. He recently ordered a rollator walker so he can attend his grandsons’ track meets at Bristol Central High School. “I don’t want to miss out,” he says.
He’s also explored dance therapy, and a local group called ParkiPong, which combines table tennis with community support. He credits these experiences, and his attitude, for helping him stay strong, both physically and mentally.
As we mark Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Swarts’s story is a reminder that while Parkinson’s brings challenges, it also brings opportunities: to grow, to connect, and to keep moving.
“Focus on the disorder and deal with it,” he says. “Don’t succumb.”
“Managing Parkinson’s requires a coordinated, team-based approach. At UConn Health, we bring together a multidisciplinary team and foster an environment where patients feel truly empowered to take an active role in their care,” says Dr. Selvadurai.
