Congratulations to OUR 2023 CHAMPION - DEAN BARR AND FAMILY

What do you call someone who has spent a lifetime sharing knowledge selflessly…a person who considers it an honor and privilege to humbly help others? What do you say when you see someone who pours their heart in everything they do unselfishly with drive and passion? Someone whose desire in life is helping others. What do you say when you meet someone who is your hero? As you stand in the shadow of all this person has done and is doing, suddenly there is so much you want to say but words in these situations are never enough. Your heart swells as you call them a “Champion” but then he quietly looks directly at you and says humbly, “just call me Dean”. 

It is a great honor and privilege to walk this path towards a cure with Dean and his wonderful family , From our community “Thank you for all you have done for others, and all you continue to do. You are loved, admired and appreciated beyond all words! Congratulations!”
 

Dean grew up on a family farm in Walnut Township and graduated from Teays Valley high school, Otterbein university and OSU. He taught math in the Logan Elm school district for 40 years, retiring in 2011. He and his wife live on their family farm where they raise beef, cattle, soybeans, wheat, and hay. They have Percheron draft horses which provide fun activities for their daughters and grandchildren. He and his family are members of the Village Chapel church in Ashville, Ohio.  

Looking back, he realized he had some mild Parkinson’s symptoms as far back as 20 years ago. In 2017, the symptoms became noticeably worse and he contacted a neurologist. Though testing and observation, the neurologist determined that he had Parkinson traits. He decided to join the delay-the-disease group where he is a beacon of grace to others by always providing a smile, positivity and encouragement. He goes above and beyond by exercising daily. He enjoys activities with family and friends, working in the yard along with farm chores. 

He understands the importance of staying active to slow the Progression of Parkinson’s. He encourages anyone with noticeably declining mobility to see their doctor, and if he/she is  diagnosed with Parkinson’s to join the delay the disease program.