Parkinson’s Disease — it’s something many of us first encountered through pop culture when Back to the Future actor Michael J. Fox revealed his diagnosis in 1991 at just 29 years old. The announcement, coming at the peak of his career, sparked both concern and curiosity among the public.

There’s still no cure for this progressive neurodegenerative disease, and treatments are focused mainly on easing symptoms like tremors, slurred speech, muscle stiffness and difficulties with gait. So, for years, the outlook for those living with Parkinson’s seemed grim.

But in an inspiring twist, one unexpected therapy has begun to change the narrative: dance.

The power of dance

Dance, typically viewed as a performance art, has proven to be much more than that. It is an expressive release, a way to connect with others and a celebration of movement.

In 2019, dance took on even deeper significance in the Philippines with the launch of Bereber Sayaw PD, the country’s first dance therapy program for Parkinson’s patients. This therapeutic approach enhances mobility, balance and both the mental and emotional health of individuals living with the disease.

Founded by Filipino-Australian choreographer, director and Pilates instructor Novy Bereber, Bereber Sayaw PD has been a gamechanger. Through the profound impact of dance, the program has helped Filipino Parkinson’s patients improve their overall quality of life.

Bereber Sayaw PD is the first program of its kind in the Philippines. Globally, dance therapy for Parkinson’s patients was first introduced in 2001 through the Dance for PD program by the Mark Morris Dance Group (MMDG) in Brooklyn, New York — a groundbreaking initiative that has since inspired similar programs worldwide.

The techniques employed in Bereber Sayaw PD offer far-reaching benefits. For example, the chair-based dance exercises target not only the spine, arms and legs, but also stimulate cognitive skills and emotional expression.

The program also cultivates a sense of community and camaraderie among the patients, offering them a fun activity and a sense of accomplishment as they navigate life with the disease.

Raising awareness

Recent studies show that a Filipino is diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease every six seconds. More concerning, however, is the growing number of individuals diagnosed in their early 40s — well before the typical onset in those over 65.

To raise awareness and combat the challenges posed by this devastating disease, Bereber Sayaw PD officially launched its advocacy campaign on 5 November at the Marriott Hotel Manila. This campaign was developed by Bereber’s partner agency, Brand Worx, under the leadership of President Nikky Nicandro.

“It’s time to break the misconception that there is nothing much we can do once an individual is affected by Parkinson’s,” said Bereber. “Through dance, we can help these individuals turn their lives around, finding joy and hope in staying active, expressing themselves or reaching their full potential no matter their age or circumstance.” 

Bereber also shared that he has witnessed firsthand how the dance program brings happiness to the patients.

“I’ve seen it in their eyes,” he said.

“Our campaign conviction: Parkinson’s Disease may diminish mobility but not the human spirit. Together, we can foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of dance,” said Nicandro.

A vision for the future

Bereber Sayaw PD aims to grow into a nationwide foundation, offering its dance therapy program to Parkinson’s patients across the Philippines and beyond. The foundation also seeks to unite communities — patients, caregivers, medical professionals, and local government units — through the universal language of dance, and build a comprehensive ecosystem for Parkinson’s care.

This vision is supported by key advocacy partners, including the Manila Marriott Hotel, Tere Filipinia, Toy Angsico (composer and lyricist of Bereber Sayaw PD’s theme song), and the Iloilo Bereber Dance Theater Company.