MANHATTAN — Thursday marked the ninth annual Pig Out for Parkinson’s hosted by Cox Brothers BBQ and the Meadowlark Hills Parkinson’s program.
Cox Brothers Partner Bud Cox says the event continues to grow every year.
Meadowlark Hills Parkinson’s program leader Michelle Haub says having the event at Cox Brothers is a special opportunity for them on a couple of levels.
Haub says the event has introduced Meadowlark Hills with many people who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s for the first time. It’s also been an avenue for those afflicted with the disease to show how they are persevering. Don Schindler is a member of Meadowlark Hills young on-set Parkinson’s group. He recently finished his 700-mile memorial ride with Cox Brother BBQ serving as the finish line Thursday.
Once Schindler was involved in the exercise program at Meadowlark Hills, he says things really began to change.
Program member Virginia Bennett is living with Parkinson’s. She joined KMAN’s In Focus program Tuesday and spoke about how the program has impacted her.
In addition, Haub says part of the intent with events like the BBQ Thursday are to clear up misconceptions about the Meadowlark Hills program.
Cox Brothers BBQ donated 10 percent of all sales from Thursday’s event to the Meadowlark Hills Parkinson’s program. Those who came out also got the opportunity to meet legendary Kansas State football coach Bill Snyder and new head coach Chris Klieman. To learn more, visit meadowlark.org.
Photos below via Meadowlark Hills social media and KMAN sister station Sunny 102.5 FM.
