When were you diagnosed with Parkinson’s?
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in December, 2024 by my neurologist at MGH/Brigham. I had been experiencing symptoms for several months, tremors in the right side, reduced range of motion, difficulty with handwriting, etc. I was not totally surprised by the diagnosis but it was very scary and upsetting.
When did you start coming to 110 Fitness?
I took a tour with Anna in December, 2024 and knew immediately that 110 Fitness was a special place. I started classes in January, 2025.
What’s your favorite class or activity at 110?
I participate in Rock Steady Boxing in the gym and BOXH2O. I like them both equally. In the gym I especially enjoy the heavy bags and speed bags. In the water I love how comforting the water makes you feel as we work through the various routines.
What do(did) you do for work?
I am a Licensed Social Worker. I worked 37 years for the Department of Children and Families doing home assessments, investigations of abuse and neglect, and chairperson of a panel reviewing the cases of children in foster care. I also worked 20 years as a Social Worker part-time in several nursing home/rehab centers. I retired from DCF in 2015 and from part-time work in 2020 when the pandemic hit.
What would you like us to know about you and your family?
I was married to my husband, Donal Murphy, for 40 years. He was a native of Dublin, Ireland and had a beautiful outlook on life and grand sense of humor. Sadly he passed away in 2023. Donal had 8 siblings so there is a large extended family in Ireland and the United Kingdom. We enjoyed many trips there over the years. I grew up in Dorchester with my parents and brother Tommy who is 21 months older than me. We are close and see each other often. I also keep in close contact with many cousins on both sides of my family.
Any fun hobbies you’d like to share?
I enjoy traveling to see friends and family around the world. My cousins and I went to Florida for 20 years to Red Sox Spring training in Fort Myers. We stopped during Covid but hope to get a trip in next year. I enjoy reading and watching sports. I have season tickets for U Mass Amherst football and hockey. I enjoy Alumni events with UMass Amherst and Boston University where I earned my Master’s degree.
How has 110 Fitness impacted your life outside of the gym?
I can’t say enough about how 110 Fitness has helped me in my daily life. It gives me hope and support from a caring community of people. Everyone has welcomed me with open arms.
Thank you Brett, Anna, and fellow 110 members !