By Marisa Dawson, Courtesy graphic
For Bennington resident Nic Chesnut, living with Parkinson’s disease has become more than a personal journey. It has also inspired a mission to help others facing the disease find support, resources and hope for the future.
Chesnut, owner of Design 4 and founder of Unshaken Parkinson’s, is bringing the community together this Saturday, Oct. 24, for a cornhole tournament benefiting the foundation’s efforts to support people living with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers.
The event will begin with registration at 11 a.m., followed by a noon start at the American Legion, 11690 S. 216th St. in Gretna. The fundraiser will feature food and drinks, music, a silent auction, a 50/50 drawing and cash prizes.
Teams of two can participate in recreational play for $50 per person or competitive play for $100 per person. The tournament will use a double-elimination format, with a cash payout for competitors. Those interested in participating or learning more can visit unshakenparkinsons.com or call 402-658-5165.
Chesnut was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2009. After years of navigating the disease himself and with his family, he decided to establish Unshaken Parkinson’s to help others find the resources and support that can make a difference in their lives.
“One thing I want to make sure we have is support,” Chesnut said. “You really have no idea where to go.”
That uncertainty is part of what motivated him to create the foundation. Through his own experience, Chesnut has learned how challenging it can be to navigate treatment options, find the right combination of medications and understand what to expect as the disease progresses.
His goal is to help people affected by Parkinson’s connect with information and resources while building a stronger local support network including local doctors and researchers.
Unshaken Parkinson’s works to educate people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers about available resources, promote awareness and support local services and research. The organization also emphasizes keeping its efforts focused on people and families in the surrounding community.
Chesnut has already been working to build connections among people living with the disease, including through support-group gatherings. He also hopes to help ensure local medical professionals have the resources and support they need to continue serving patients in the area.
The foundation’s work is personal for Chesnut, who has participated in numerous studies since his diagnosis and has undergone deep brain stimulation treatment. His experiences have given him firsthand insight into the uncertainty that can accompany a Parkinson’s diagnosis, as well as the importance of continuing to explore ways to improve care.
For him, the effort is about making a difference beyond his own circumstances.
“There’s a way we can possibly slow down the progression,” Chesnut said. “So that’d be nice to have.”
Proceeds from Saturday’s tournament will benefit Unshaken Parkinson’s and its mission, with UNMC and HELP Medical Equipment as beneficiaries. HELP Medical Equipment provides access to medical equipment for people who need it, including those recovering from surgery or managing mobility challenges.
The fundraiser offers an opportunity for community members to support that work while enjoying a day of friendly competition and fellowship.
For Chesnut, building awareness and helping people find the support they need are central to the foundation’s purpose. Saturday’s event is another step toward growing that mission and reaching more individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease.
To learn more about Unshaken Parkinson’s, register or find additional information about the fundraiser, visit unshakenparkinsons.com.
