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Denise Formisano is a passionate leader and advocate, committed to making a difference in the lives of those with movement challenges. With a degree in design and minors in marketing and product management from the Fashion Institute of Technology, Denise retired as Vice President of Encompass Healthcare after a 42-year career. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2014 and Parkinson’s in 2015, she turned to boxing to manage her symptoms, sparking a deep determination to help others. As CEO of the Center For Movement Challenges, Denise has driven initiatives to expand wellness programs for individuals with Parkinson’s, Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease, and other movement disorders, creating a space where community and wellness thrive.

Annie Long is the Senior Community Program Manager for the Parkinson’s Foundation, where she oversees community education and empowerment programs in Georgia and nearby areas. Previously, she was the Executive Director of PD Gladiators, where she expanded the Atlanta Fitness Network and helped merge the organization with the Parkinson’s Foundation. Annie is passionate about helping others and strongly believes in the benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Annie joined the Parkinson’s Foundation in 2013 after her mother was diagnosed with PD. Before that, she worked as a Communications Consultant for an employee communications agency and as Operations Manager for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Washington, DC. Annie lives in Johns Creek with her husband Chris, two children, Brooks and Taylor, and their pug, Winnie.

Tom Jeffrey brings over 35 years of experience in sales and project management to his role as Director of Operations at the Center for Movement Challenges. A graduate of Susquehanna University with a BA in History, Tom transitioned to early retirement in 2020 to help establish the center's wellness facility. He oversees daily operations, equipment and facility maintenance, member relations, and new member orientation. With a focus on ensuring a welcoming and efficient environment, Tom is dedicated to supporting the center’s mission of improving the lives of those with movement challenges.

Dr. Juncos is a former Associate Professor of Neurology at Emory University School of Medicine, where he worked as a researcher and clinician in the Movement Disorders Program. He earned his medical degree from Columbia University in NYC, completed neurology training at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, and finished his fellowship in movement disorders and neuropharmacology at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. With 30 years of experience, he specializes in diagnosing and managing Parkinson’s disease and related disorders. Board-certified in internal medicine and neurology, Dr. Juncos has a special interest in treating neuropsychiatric and autonomic symptoms in movement disorders. He has led or participated in over 30 clinical trials, including NIH-funded studies like the Neuroprotective Trials in Parkinson’s Disease (NET-PD) and research on Parkinson’s epidemiology.

William “Willy” Goggins is an MMA fighter, coach and personal trainer, experienced in cardio kickboxing is from Atlanta, GA. He holds a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under coach Gabriel Kitober. An accomplished wrestler, with 10 years under his belt. As a strong advocate for physical fitness for self-care and therapy, he can be found researching nutrition and supplementation to provide those he trains with an optimal health experience. When not at the gym, he can be found training his service dog.

Dr. Schlissel, a dedicated professional with decades of experience, holds a BA from Brooklyn College, a DDS from the University of Buffalo, and a Master of Science in Materials Science from Stony Brook University. As Professor Emeritus of General Dentistry at Stony Brook University, he served on the faculty for 30 years before moving to Atlanta, GA, where he practiced dentistry until 2022. An esteemed lecturer, he continues to share his expertise with dentists worldwide through in-person and virtual sessions. Beyond his career, Dr. Schlissel has actively contributed to professional, fraternal, and religious organizations in both New York and Georgia.

Dr. McCasland has been a community-based neurologist in Atlanta for over 20 years, focusing on neurology since 1998. He encourages patients with Parkinson’s Disease to include organized exercise as a key part of their treatment, regardless of their ability level. He often refers patients to LDBF Boxing for Parkinson’s, receiving consistent positive feedback and observing improvements in their symptoms. Dr. McCasland highlights the benefits of LDBF Boxing, saying it offers not only an excellent workout but also a supportive community that motivates his patients. He has seen improvements in balance, mobility, dexterity, and confidence among participants, reinforcing his belief in the program. Dr. McCasland completed an Internal Medicine internship at Washington Hospital Center in D.C. and a three-year Neurology residency at Emory University, where he served as Chief Resident in his final year. His areas of interest include nerve and muscle diseases, neurological conditions affecting the eyes, concussions, and the care of professional athletes.

Iris is a marketing and technology professional with Fortune 50 experience specializing in operational and strategic planning, market development, project management, and cross-sector collaboration. A high-honor graduate from Georgia Tech in Management Science, she has a background in developing communications networks and knowledge-intensive services. Despite a Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) diagnosis, Iris has remained active, discovering a passion for boxing, which led to her work with LDBF’s Center for Movement Challenges, where she helps others with Parkinson’s and movement disorders. Inspired by Muhammad Ali, she embraces his quote: "Don't count the days. Make the days count."

Dr. Jaime Hatcher-Martin is a physician-scientist with expertise in neurology, movement disorders, telemedicine, and building virtual clinical practices. She founded Georgia's first telemedicine clinic for Movement Disorders and speaks nationally about telemedicine and movement disorders. Dr. Hatcher-Martin serves as the telemedicine expert on the American Academy of Neurology’s (AAN) Teleneurology subcommittee and has contributed to multiple AAN workgroups. She is also part of the International Parkinson Disease and Movement Disorders Telemedicine Task Force. Dr. Hatcher-Martin practices in 19 states with Synapticure as the Movement Disorders Director and is Adjunct Faculty at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Her research experience spans basic science, clinical trials, advisory boards, and grant reviews. She is certified in various movement disorder and stroke rating scales. Committed to community outreach, she collaborates with organizations like the Michael J. Fox Foundation and Parkinson Foundation. Additionally, she runs her consulting company, Face to Face Neurology.

Carolee Horner provides group and individual functional nutrition services. Through her Educational Workshop series learn how nutrition plays an integral part in Parkinson’s healthcare management and how Nutrition is Medicine. Nutrition is crucial for people living with Parkinson's disease as it provides the necessary energy and nutrients to support muscle function, maintain strength, and enhance overall health. A balanced diet can help manage weight, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Proper nutrition also aids in preventing secondary health issues, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, that can further complicate movement difficulties. Additionally, specific nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids can support brain health, while proteins support muscle repair and maintenance, making good nutrition a key component in managing and improving the quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson's.

Retired Executive Director - AT&T. Lifelong competitive runner (retired) and volunteer to the running community. Certified fitness instructor beginning in the 1980s. Introduced to the LDBF Parkinson’s boxing program in 2015 and impressed by participants motivation and hard work. Favorite workouts: boxing, road and mountain biking, stationary cycling, functional strength and Pilates. Jack appreciates the opportunity to learn and share his experience to help others improve their quality of life.

Wendy has over 25 years of experience in Human Resources and Operations, known for her creative problem-solving and building strong partnerships. She is skilled in training, diversity and inclusion, employee relations, talent development, and strategic planning. Wendy is also a certified behavioral interview trainer and mediator. She is passionate about helping military members, people with disabilities, and underserved communities. Wendy has led many community programs, including university internships, workshops for job seekers, events for children and seniors, and support for homeless individuals and veterans. She has organized sustainability initiatives and participated in United Way events like BBQs and bake sales. Wendy began her career as a physician recruiter and later worked at UPS, where she advanced to lead the corporate talent acquisition team. She now works as a consultant, combining her HR skills with her love for community service. Wendy’s dedication to helping others reflects her passion for making a positive impact.

Amy graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2009. She began working with Parkinson’s patients at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville, SC, and later moved to Atlanta in 2013 to work at Emory Healthcare until 2021. At Emory, she expanded and led the Movement Disorders rehab program and mentored students in Emory University’s Physical Therapy Neurological Residency program. Amy has spoken at local and national events, including Emory’s Udall Community Conversations, the National Parkinson’s Foundation’s “Living Well” and “Fitness Counts” programs, and the 2016 World Parkinson’s Congress. She also teaches Parkinson’s-related materials to Physical Therapy students at Emory University and Georgia State University. Since 2014, Amy has been involved with the LDBF Boxing for Parkinson’s™ program and co-authored the LDBF Affiliate Certification Training Program. In 2021, she co-founded Synapse NeuroRehab and Wellness with Brittney Hooker, opening a private PT practice near CFMC™ to connect rehab and wellness care for people with Movement Disorders.

Dr. Amy Morse graduated from Medical University of South Carolina with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2009. She worked at St. Francis Hospital in Greenville, SC for four years where she began working with people with Parkinson's Disease. Following this, Amy moved to Atlanta in 2013 and took a job with Emory Healthcare until 2021. During her time at Emory, Amy expanded and lead the Movement Disorder rehab program, was a mentor for Emory University Physical Therapy Neurological Residency program. She has spoken at many local and national community events and conferences including Emory's Udall Community Conversations, National Parkinson's Foundation "Living Well" and "Fitness Counts", and World Parkinson's Congress in 2016. She teaches the Parkinson's lab materials for Emory University and GA State's Physical Therapy students.

Adam, the son of two social workers, grew up in Chicago and spent over 30 years there. He started his career in marketing at a Chicago-based agency and later moved to Atlanta in 1997 while working for The Coca-Cola Company in sports marketing. Over the years, Adam worked with Clear Channel Entertainment and the world’s largest sports agency, International Management Group, where he led domestic and international projects, including building the iconic Coke bottle at Turner Field in Atlanta. Despite his success in marketing, Adam wanted to connect more with his community. This led him to earn a CNA degree and co-own Caring Companions of Atlanta, LLC. Passionate about helping older adults, Adam runs Caring Companions, lectures at Emory on senior issues, teaches at Senior Enriched Living in Roswell, serves on the board of The Center for Movement Challenges, and delivers candy weekly to the Emory Brain Health Center. Adam graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a double major in journalism and marketing. He lives in Sandy Springs with his wife, Meg, their children, Alec and Elle, and their pets—two cats and a dog named Opal.

Brittney Hooker, PT, DPT, NCS graduated with a BS in Exercise Science from Southeast Missouri State University in 2014 and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The University of Missouri in 2017. She completed her Neurologic PT Residency at Emory University in 2018 and was board certified as a Neurologic Clinical Specialist in 2019. She worked as a PT at Emory Brain Health Center from 2018 – 2021, where she primarily treated people with Parkinson’s disease and other Movement Disorders. During her time at Emory, she was also a mentor for the Emory Neurologic PT Residency Program. Additionally, she teaches Movement Disorders lectures/labs for Emory University DPT School. Brittney presented her research on PT for people with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy at a National PT Conference in 2020. In 2021, Brittney transitioned to her current role as Co-Owner and PT at Synapse NeuroRehab and Wellness, where she continues to focus on improving the quality of lives of people with Parkinson’s Disease and other neurologic diagnoses. Brittney also serves as a member of the Advisory Board for the Parkinson’s Foundation of Georgia.

Enable Home Solutions specializes in home modifications needed to make your home safer and more functional, and reduce fall risks. Cynthia Lourie provides an in-home evaluation to access your needs. What does "aging in place" mean? There is no one-size-fits-all solution for someone whose physical or cognitive ability is changing as they age, or as a chronic condition worsens. The first step toward finding a personalized solution that encompasses physical needs, safety, and practical accessibility is finding an expert to trust. Cynthia Lourie and her team of occupational therapists specialize in home accessibility and have proven experience supporting and empowering people living with Parkinson’s to embrace life despite their changing needs and abilities.

Dr. Brittney Hooker graduated with her BS in Exercise Science from Southeast Missouri State University in 2014 and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The University of Missouri in 2017. She completed her Neurologic PT Residency at Emory University in 2018 and was board certified as a Neurologic Clinical Specialist in 2019. She worked as a PT at Emory Brain Health Center from 2018-2021, where she primarily treated people with Parkinson's disease and other Movement Disorders. During her time at Emory, she was also a mentor for the Emory Neurologic PT Residency Program. Additionally, she teaches Movement Disorder lectures/labs for Emory University DPT School. Brittney presented her research on PT for people with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy at National PT Conference in 2020. In 2021, Brittney transitioned to her current role as Co-Owner and PT at Synapse NeuroRehab and Wellness, where she continues to focus on improving the quality of lives of people with Parkinson's Disease and other neurologic diagnoses. Brittney also serves as a member of the Advisory Board for the Parkinson's Foundation of Georgia.

Brian Soucy is an experienced executive with over 40 years in the chemical industry and consulting. His expertise includes process development, engineering, project management, construction, and operations. Brian has overseen greenfield and brownfield site evaluations, secured economic incentives, arranged utility and railroad services, and managed environmental permitting and zoning approvals. He has led engineering and construction projects for chemical manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and Canada, managing budgets exceeding $200 million. In 1995, Brian founded Global Environmental Solutions, Inc. (GESI), an engineering firm specializing in process engineering, project management, and environmental compliance. He also serves as Senior Vice President of Engineering for the U.S. subsidiary of a French chemical company, overseeing maintenance at North American facilities and managing capital projects with annual budgets of $100–$250 million. Brian grew up in Vermont and earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in Chemical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. He has lived in Georgia since 1995 and currently resides in Canton with his wife.

Niamh Tunney PT, DPT, MS is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Mercer University, Atlanta Georgia, where she has been a faculty member since 2010. Dr. Tunney completed her Master of Science degree at Georgia State University, her Doctor of Physical Therapy at MGH Institute of Health Professions. She graduated as a physiotherapist from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. She practiced full time in neuro- rehabilitation for 17 years, and part time for 10 years while transitioning to full time academia. Her teaching focus is in the areas of neurorehabilitation and neuroscience. Her research interests are in the scholarship of teaching and learning, particularly inter-professional education. She has published several articles on motor learning and on approaches to neuro- rehabilitation both in the PT clinic extending intervention into the community.

Kitty Chin, PT served on the CFMC Board of Directors as a Volunteer Coordinator. The volunteers from Physical Therapy program at Mercer, Emory, GSU, and Philadelphia College of Medicine assist with Level 3/4 classes providing members with one - on - one assistance offering a safer and more beneficial exercise experience. Kitty is a retired Physical Therapist with specialization in Orthopedic Manual Therapy for Treatment of Spinal and Extremity Pain/Dysfunction, Fall Prevention in older adults, balance and gait disorders, dizziness, and vestibular rehabilitation, LSVT BIG Clinician, Certified Parkinson's Wellness Recovery, Rocky Steady Certified.

Charly Rowlands has an extensive fitness instructor background with a concentration on servicing the Parkinson’s community. She currently is part of the Synapse NeuroRehab team through which she teaches CFMC Optimizing classes. Additionally she is a Parkinson’s Disease/Pilate’s/Fitness Instructor at the Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA, Peachtree Corners where she teaches PD Movement, PD Boxing, Pilate’s, Aqua Aerobics, Senior Fitness, Group Fitness, Balance and Mobility, Barre, Line Dance, TRX .

Scott Oglesbay, LMT, MMT, BCTMB practices Myoskeletal Alignment Therapy (MAT), an osteopath-based modality to improve body alignment and posture. MAT, a form of manual therapy uses scientific evidence about the body and brain to inform the practitioner’s approach to musculoskeletal problems. MAT relies heavily on strategic deep tissue and muscle activation for posture correction and pain relief. MAT training teaches how the musculoskeletal and nervous system work together, the root causes of the pain and how to restore optimal balance and performance. Scott also practices Relaxation Massage and Reiki Energy Healing, a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation.

Kitty Chin, PT servers as a Volunteer Coordinator. The volunteers from Physical Therapy programs at Mercer, Emory, GSU, Philadelphia College of Medicine assist with Level 3/4 classes providing members with the one-on-one assistance offering a safer and more beneficial exercise experience Kitty is a retired Physical Therapist with specialization in Orthopedic Manual Therapy for Treatment of Spinal and Extremity Pain/Dysfunction, Fall Prevention in older adults, balance and gait disorders, dizziness, and vestibular rehabilitation, certified LSVT Big Clinician, Certified Parkinson's Wellness Recovery Therapist, Rocky Steady, CPR Certified.

PD GENEration is a global research study that provides genetic testing and genetic counseling at no cost for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD). People can participate by enrolling online and completing an at-home blood collection kit or in-person at one of the participating PD GENEration clinical sites. Unlike traditional research studies, participants not only contribute to scientific advancement but also participants can discover new knowledge about their genetic makeup, understand their family’s risks and help benefit generations to come.

Niamh Tunney is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Mercer University, Atlanta Georgia, where she has been a faculty member since M2010. Dr. Tunney completed her Master of Science degree at Georgia State University, her Doctor of Physical Therapy at MGH Institute of Health Professions, and she qualified as a physiotherapist at Trinity College Dubin, Ireland. She practiced full time in neurorehabilitation for 17 years, and part for 10 years while transitioning to full time academia. Her teaching focus is in the areas of the neurorehabilitation and neuroscience.

Robert Dichiara, graduated from Mississippi State with a Bachelors Degree in Accounting. Licensed CPA in the state of Georgia. Division Controller at Georgia Pacific for 19 years. Retired former CFO of Swiss Krono USA, a US subsidiary of Swiss Krono AG of Switzerland. Robert volunteers his expertise to assist the organization with financial responsibilities of maintaining complete, accurate records of all financial transactions, receipts and disbursements, and assists in preparing and monitoring annual budget and business plan.

Cynthia “Cindy” Lourie, MS, OTR/L, ECHM, CAPS, is a licensed occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience in various settings, including home health, inpatient and outpatient rehab, and acute care. She specializes in addressing the needs of adults and older adults, helping them maintain function and independence as they age. Recognizing that needs and abilities change with age or medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders, Cindy focuses on helping individuals “age in place” by modifying environments or tasks to enhance safety and maximize independence. She also supports caregivers managing aging parents in non-conducive environments. Cindy joined EnABLE Home Solutions LLC in 2019, becoming its president and sole owner in April 2023. She also joined the Synapse Rehab team in Fall 2023.

Janet Kishbaugh an active member of CFMC, serves as the Director of Research and Information at Public Education Matters Georgia, a non-profit corporation she helped to form in 2015. Public Education Matters Georgia is an advocacy organization that promotes responsible public education policy for all Georgia students. Janet has served as a lobbyist on behalf of Public Education Matters Georgia, the Georgia Coalition for Public Education, and Southern Education Foundation at the Georgia Capitol. Her experience as a litigation attorney in several major law firms in New York and Atlanta, and her policy work for an Atlanta City Council member, honed her skills in analyzing and explaining the often-complex education legislation introduced at the Georgia Capitol. Janet has been active at the Center for Movement Challenges since November 2021. She participates in Boxing, Optimization, and Yoga classes, and has organized a group of CFMC members to play Pickleball. Janet has served on a number of advocacy boards, and neighborhood school organizations. Janet received a Bachelor of Arts in history from Yale University, and a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law.

Mark S. Bodnar, ACSM-EPC and Iyengar Certified Yoga Instructor, is an ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist and a certified Iyengar yoga instructor with over 20 years of experience teaching yoga and fitness in the Atlanta area. He served as an adjunct professor in the Exercise Science Department at Georgia State University from 2015 to 2018. Mark has worked with clients and students managing a wide range of health conditions, including anxiety and depression, arthritis, asthma, chronic back pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, GERD, herniated discs, sciatica, hypertension, IBS, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and scoliosis. Mark’s educational background includes degrees in biology, music performance, music education, music therapy, mental health counseling, and exercise science, as well as extensive training in mindfulness and meditation. He is passionate about teaching yoga and fitness, finding joy in helping students unlock their potential and tap into their inherent healing abilities.

Haley Hawkins is a certified yoga instructor with a 200hr training from Lift Yoga Studio under Kim Saunders. She also holds a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Louis University, and is working on becoming a licensed therapist. Haley believes that yoga is truly transformative for the body, mind, and spirit, no matter what stage of life you are in. Her classes weave in themes of self-compassion and healing, helping you leave feeling capable and strong. She teaches chair, wall, and mat yoga, and focuses on making yoga fully accessible for everyone.

Valeria Gary, Speech Language Pathologist teaches speech classes. She holds certifications in Speech language pathology, Brain Health Training, Behavior Change, Personal Training, and Health Coaching, LSVT LOUD, LSVT LOUD for Life, Speak OUT! McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program, Vital Stim, Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile. She owns southwest Parkinson's Speech Services LLC where she provides maintenance speech therapy services. Member of Allied Team Training for Parkinsons's and an active volunteer for the Parkinson's Foundation.

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