At first glance, Marcia Drost, at 78, might seem like a typical grandmother. With the assistance of a walker and her loyal service dog, Sadie, by her side, she faces each day with courage and determination. But what sets her apart is the boxing gloves she pulls on three times a week, getting into the ring not for competition but for life. At Rock Steady Boxing College Station, Marcia battles Parkinson’s disease with every punch she throws, demonstrating that resilience and a positive mindset can be the most effective medicine.
Marcia’s never been one to back down from a fight. Even before being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, she demonstrated resilience and courage. As a child, she beat polio in the 1952 epidemic, one of the deadliest in the history of the United States. The disease temporarily stole her ability to swallow, and doctors prepared the family for the worst. Yet, at five years old, Marcia defied the odds by surviving and thriving.
Marcia pursued education with a passion and graduated from Arizona State University to embark on a career as a teacher. Her life revolved around learning, sharing knowledge, and helping others. But more challenges awaited her.
In 2010, Marcia collapsed in front of her calculus class at Texas A&M University. Students watched in horror as she turned pale and lost consciousness. Students called 911 and rushed to her aid. One student moved to brace Marcia’s head, protecting her from a hard blow on the concrete floor. After being transported to the hospital, tests ruled out a stroke, heart attack, or transient ischemic attack.
Following her doctor’s advice, she underwent several neurological tests. The diagnosis was painful to hear—Parkinson’s disease. With a life built on education, Marcia investigated information and resources, only to be disappointed. A local support group advised that exercise would not benefit her condition, but Marcia would not accept a life of inevitable decline. She immersed herself in research and discovered that the support group’s advice was incorrect. In fact, one of the most effective methods in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s is exercise.
Marcia was never a fan of structured, daily exercise. She was confident that her active and social lifestyle would be adequate for maintaining her fitness level. By early 2022, she realized something had to be done. She struggled to lift herself out of a chair without help, threatening her independence. Then, she learned about Rock Steady Boxing, a program designed especially for people with Parkinson’s.
Marcia, determined to fight, joined the gym. In just three months, she noticed remarkable changes. Her balance improved, her strength returned, and she regained the confidence she had lost. As she began boxing, her gloves became a badge of honor—a symbol of hope, resilience, and determination to persevere.
Parkinson’s affects more than movement; it makes speaking difficult, too. Marcia, who once spoke with authority as a commanding lecturer, found her voice weakening. Refusing to lose her strong voice, she worked with a speech pathologist. The therapy helped tighten her vocal cords, allowing her to speak loudly and clearly once again.
Marcia understood that Parkinson’s also impacted the mind, and she knew keeping her brain active was crucial, so she engaged in mental exercise, maintained close ties with friends and family, and stayed socially and intellectually active.
Marcia’s husband, Gary, has provided steadfast support for over 50 years through each trial life has thrown at her. He now helps her maintain her independence while ensuring her safety. Instead of doing everything for her, as many caregivers tend to do, he encourages her to do things on her own and offers help only when needed. His ultimate goal is to support her in preserving her autonomy. Even though Parkinson’s is a formidable opponent, Marcia refuses to let it define her. She fights back daily with exercise, attitude, and an unconquerable spirit.
Her story is not just about her own struggle; it’s one of activism. Marcia freely shares her story with newly diagnosed patients, encouraging them to prioritize exercise, community, and positivity.
Marcia Drost is proof that superheroes do not necessarily wear capes. Some wear boxing gloves, fighting battles with grit and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that even though Parkinson’s is daunting, it will never defeat her.
