The Good Fight Parkinson’s Center in Lake Forest has established a new home base for south Orange County residents battling Parkinson’s disease, offering specialized boxing workouts and a supportive community. The nonprofit organization, formerly known as the Donna Clervi Foundation, celebrated the grand opening of its new facility at Rockhaus Fitness on October 16.
Founder Donna Clervi explained that while the workouts involve throwing punches, they target boxing mitts rather than sparring partners. She noted that those who step into the gym’s boxing ring often find it to be a thrilling experience, despite initial apprehension. Clervi stated the workouts are designed to strengthen both body and mind, helping participants focus on the present moment.
The recent grand opening also served as an annual fundraiser and an opportunity to acknowledge longtime supporters, with eight individuals receiving personalized boxing championship belts. Clervi managed event complexities, including an auctioneer delayed by the Norte fire, maintaining a positive perspective that she encourages in her Parkinson’s fighters.
Clervi established the Donna Clervi Foundation in 2021 with a vision for a holistic Parkinson’s Development Center in Orange County. The journey to a dedicated facility was extensive, beginning with group meetings at a park near her Dove Canyon home, then another park, followed by a gym in Rancho Santa Margarita, and later a large room at the Coto Valley Country Club. After five years, the group now has a permanent space.
The center provides both group classes and one-on-one instruction. This is facilitated through ongoing partnerships with retired amateur boxer Marlon Ealy and Rock Steady Boxing. Chip Wiseman, Clervi’s husband and the Executive Director of The Good Fight Parkinson’s, emphasized that combination training helps participants work their minds, requiring focus and memory while exercising.
Coto de Caza resident Judy Fisher, a 64-year-old retired healthcare executive, joined The Good Fight Parkinson’s soon after her diagnosis in 2025. She credits the group with providing her with a sense of purpose. Fisher stated she is now in the best physical condition of her life, even as she manages leg tremors. She highlighted the compassion and care from Clervi and Wiseman, noting their genuine, heartfelt motivation.
Mission Viejo resident Jay Rosen, 61, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in December 2024 and began boxing two months later, following a recommendation from a physical therapist at Kaiser Permanente. Rosen described the group as a vital community, distinct from typical gym environments. He observed participants ranging from their 60s to 90s, with one 90-year-old boxer training four days a week.
Rosen viewed sweat as "one of the best medicines" for his treatment. He appreciated the shared experience with others in the same situation, describing it as a core component of Clervi’s vision to combine community and athletics. He also noted that the training includes practical skills like learning how to fall.
With a dedicated gym now established, Clervi expressed the importance of outreach to ensure the community is aware of their services. She also plans to expand the center’s offerings, including monthly workshops on Parkinson’s-related topics and additional specialized services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech pathology. The center aims to continue growing its support for local residents navigating Parkinson's disease.
