Our Instructors

PATRICK VANBEVEREN

Patrick VanBeveren, a physical therapist since 1972, is a certified RSB coach and is serving as Executive Director of Empower Parkinson, Inc.

Patrick is a nationally recognized author and speaker in the use of exercise for aging adults. Over his 50-year career as a physical therapist, Dr. VanBeveren has been a private-practice owner, an educator, the President of the New York Physical Therapy Association, the Supervisor of Rehabilitation at St. Camillus, and a tireless advocate for patients and the physical therapy profession. In 2017, Dr. VanBeveren started Rock Steady Boxing in Syracuse, NY. This organization, later became Empower Parkinson Inc., providing holistic wellness programs and giving hope to those living with Parkinson’s in CNY.

GABE YANKOWITZ

Physical therapist in Central New York for 37 years, specializing in orthopedic treatment and rehabilitation.

Board-Certification as Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy (2009)*

Certified Rock Steady Boxing Coach January 2020.

ANGELA MATIMORE

Certified RSB Coach

Angela was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in November of 2015. She joined Rock Steady Boxing in March of 2017 as a participant.

After participating in Rock Steady Boxing Classes for a year and half she wanted to give back to an organization that had given her confidence, encouragement, and strength.

She then decided she wanted to become a coach while she still physically could.

In September of 2018 Angela became a Certified Rock Steady Boxing Coach. This January (2020) she became a SCW Certified Personal Trainer.

LIZ YATES HORTON

DPT Certified Big For Life Instructor

Liz is a physical therapist who specializes in working with individuals with neurological conditions and problems with balance and dizziness.

She is certified in the LSVT Big and Big for life programs.

She participates in teaching several courses as an adjunct faculty member in the physical therapy program at SUNY Upstate.

She is also a co-investigator in a clinical trial at SUNY Upstate studying the benefits of a community exercise group for those with Parkinson’s Disease.

She is owner of Engage, where she provides in person and telehealth therapy services.

In Liz’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children, husband, and pug. Liz loves gardening, painting, yoga, and baking with her daughter.

KAT BOMBARD

“My name Is Kat Bombard. Fitness, nutrition and wellness have been what I do for the past 25 years.

“I’m honored and excited to be sharing some of my knowledge and time with the wonderful people at Rock Steady Boxing!

“1, 2, 3 – Screw PD!”

JILL WELDUM

Jill Weldum, LMFT, has volunteered with empower Parkinson for two years in the gym providing encouragement.

She also facilitates support group meetings for boxers and care partners and occasionally teachers Tai Chi.

She feels blessed to be part of the community!

KAREN CRETARO

Karen Cretaro has been part of the Empower Parkinson team since its first boxing class in 2017.

She soon combined fighting back against Parkinson’s with her passion for living a healthy and active lifestyle to achieve her Rock Steady Boxing Coach Certification.

Karen truly enjoys helping others on their wellness journey.

She has been an aerobic fitness instructor and studied Tae Kwon Do for many years. Her interests include boating and playing with her grandkids.

MISHAYLA BELLOWS

“I am a yoga teacher and forever a yoga student.

“A comprehensive approach to wellness is important to me, and yoga is a practice that is healing for more than just our bodies.

“I am so grateful to always be learning about this practice, and sharing it with people.”