Randy Harris, host of Think Again interviewed John Mylius and Ken Posey (local Parkinson’s support group) and two people who are caregivers for loved ones with Parkinson’s Disease. Mike Sunjica, located here in Las Cruces, and Pattie Stoffel from Florida share their experiences as caregivers. They give us insight into the emotional, physical, and psychological challenges of the caregiver experience, and managing their own self-care.
Click here to listen to the show.
Inspired by “The Harmonica Parkinson’s Project” Carol’s class, New Pathways for Parkinsons, is learning to play the harmonica. The project is an evidence-based, therapeutic program that uses learning and playing the harmonica to help maintain and improve speech, breath control, and saliva management in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
How It Helps with Parkinson’s Speech
Up to 90% of people with PD experience speech-related difficulties as the disease progresses, including:
Playing the harmonica targets these exact physiological mechanics. Inhaling and exhaling through the instrument builds respiratory strength, breath support, and oral-motor coordination—similar to traditional speech therapy, but in a creative, group-oriented setting.
The program was founded by physical therapist Kevin Lockette (with decades of experience in Parkinson’s care and harmonica performance).
Barbara William’s husband, Thomas Ocie Williams III,78, passed away on June 22, 2026 at Mountain View Hospital in Las Cruces, New Mexico. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Sunday, October 18 at the Sunset Grill at Sonoma Ranch Golf Course at 3pm.
Tom was born August 23rd 1947 in Birmingham, Alabama, ‘Tommy’, Graduated from Phillips High School in Birmingham in 1965. He was passionate about the sports that he played growing up and he excelled at baseball, basketball and football. Tommy was a varsity member of the 1965 Phillip’s basketball team that took first place in the city. In 1965 he attended Colorado State University on a football scholarship, as a defensive tackle, and graduated with a BS degree in 1969.
He was preceded in death by his parents Lois Williams and Thomas O. Williams II. His career working in non-profit organizations included the Red Cross in Florida, Alaska and Atlanta and the United Way in Atlanta. Tommy also was in public relations for the State of Georgia (as what he called a professional liar) and was a playwright and actor for Agatha’s A Taste of Mystery in Atlanta, from 1988 to 2005. He will never be forgotten for his wacky sense of humor which brought laughter to everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Barbara Louis Williams of Las Cruces, and his cousins Lynn Hollis and Janet Wilbanks of Tuscumbia, Alabama.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Sunday, October 18 at the Sunset Grill at Sonoma Ranch Golf Course at 3pm.
This is your friendly reminder of our upcoming meeting Tuesday, October 20th at the Holiday Inn Express-Las Cruces North – 2142 Telshor Court. Join us for our support group meeting.
Social Time 9:00 to 9:45 – Meeting 9:45 to 12:00.
Guest Speakers:
Dr. Kati Henley – VYLEV Stem Cell treatment for Parkinsons
Gerry Burgos, Coach/trainer Rock Steady Boxing
Lisa Gonzales, Medicare Specialist
Vanessa Ordonez
Join us at the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce 2026 Health & Biz Expo!
Event Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026 Las Cruces Downtown Plaza
We’ll have a table on the north end of the Plaza, near the stage. We set up at 8 am; come help man the booth.
Our Parkinson’s Exercise Class, New Pathways for Parkinsons, led by Medical Exercise Specialist, Carol Witham, is cancelled Monday September 21 & 28, Wedneday Sept. 23 & 30, so Carol can have a well-deserved vacation. Classes willl resume on Monday October 5 at 10 a.m. as usual.
RSB Class will be cancelled on Monday September 7, due to Labor Day activities. We will make up the class on Wednesday September 9 at 10 a.m.
Our Parkinson’s Exercise Class, New Pathways for Parkinsons, led by Medical Exercise Specialist, Carol Witham, is cancelled Monday September 7, due to Labor Day activities. Classes willl resume on Wednesday September 9 at 10 a.m. as usual.
Parkinson’s Pickleball meets 12:30-2:30 on Thursdays at Meerscheidt.
Also, some of our people have a membership at Pickle Planet and are scheduling additional practice there on Tuesdays. Check with Ken Posey if you want to be included on his list.
Upcoming Tuesday Pickleball Practice at Pickle Planet,
KTAL’s Mesilla Valley Sports Show featured Carol Witham, leader of a local exercise program for people living with Parkinson’s disease, who discussed the growing impact of the neurological disorder and the important role that exercise plays in managing its symptoms. Witham explained how research has shown that regular physical activity can improve balance, mobility, strength, and overall quality of life, while also slowing the progression of the disease.