Larry Ulrich 2017
Larry Ulrich always had the mentality that “getting out and doing something is better than spending all day in the recliner.” A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, as well as a left and a right total knee replacement, impacted his ability to maintain an active lifestyle. Larry recalled difficulty getting out of that recliner, poor energy and stamina, and difficulty with his balance when walking. He thought “I can’t decline anymore; I don’t want to be in any worse shape.” That’s when Larry decided it was time to take control of his health. He joined the Wimmer Rehabilitation Wellness Center. He then decided to improve his health further with regular attendance of the Parkinson’s exercise group, stating “I don’t miss very often”. He notes “I enjoy getting home and saying that the workout was challenging.” Even though Larry “hates those torture blocks”, referring to the incline boards; he always gives them his best effort. Larry’s attitude encourages many within the exercise group, persuading many with “join the program to maintain rather than decline”. Larry reports numerous positive outcomes since joining the exercise group. Once using a cane for most activities, he now rarely uses it. His stamina and balance have improved significantly. He recalls only being able to walk about three laps around the track at the beginning of his wellness journey. Currently, Larry walks for 30 continuous minutes stating “just wanted to see if I could do it”.
Larry is a positive role model within St. Francis Memorial-Wimmer Rehabilitation as well as amongst his family. Larry’s wife, Janet, is very supportive of him and they are often seen at the wellness center together. Larry strives to know more about Parkinson’s disease by continuously searching for new education, treatments, and technologies. In regard to wellness in spite of Parkinson’s, Larry states “I don’t think I will necessary live longer, but I know I live a better life”. St. Francis Memorial- Wimmer Rehabilitation staff members agree that Larry has a better life, and thanks him for making every day better!
