“They’ll make you better”: How an innovative Parkinson’s treatment improved Veterans’ quality of life
By Hunter Gordian, Public Affairs Specialist
“He had difficulty finding his words,” said the wife of Army Veteran Cliff Lampitt. “Now I can carry complete conversations with him.”
Parkinson’s disease brought gradual but significant changes for Cliff and his family. Conversations grew shorter. Movements slowed. Everyday tasks required more effort.
When Cliff enrolled in the Seattle Parkinson’s Intensive Rehabilitation and Interdisciplinary Treatment (SPIRIT) Program at VA Puget Sound, he committed to three weeks of focused, high-intensity treatment — three or more hours a day — designed to strengthen movement, speech, and overall function.
Veterans face a disproportionately higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and cognition. Approximately 110,000 Veterans receive Parkinson’s care across VA.
“When Cliff was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I got up and said, ‘We’re going to VA,’” shared Cliff’s wife. “You can definitely see the quality of the treatment at VA.”
At VA Puget Sound, the SPIRIT program brings together a team of physical, occupational, and recreation therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, and other rehabilitation specialists who work collaboratively to address the full impact of the disease. Through targeted exercise and repetition, Veterans practice stronger speech, improved balance, and increased mobility.
Parkinson’s is a complex and progressive neurological disorder. Effective care requires a coordinated team of specialists to address diverse symptoms and the unique needs and priorities of the individual. Research shows this multidisciplinary care approach can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s. Organizing and delivering that level of care, however, can be challenging. At VA Puget Sound, staff designed the SPIRIT program specifically to bring those services together in one structured, intensive setting.
“They’ll make you better,” Cliff said. “There are a lot of improvements you can see.”
Beyond traditional therapy, the program incorporates mindfulness meditation, community outings, social work support, and movement-based activities such as dancing, yoga, and Tai Chi. Veterans can also connect with external partners such as Veterans Benefits Association representatives and Veterans Service Officers — helping ensure support continues beyond inpatient care.
“Our team here in Seattle works together to empower and motivate Veterans living with Parkinson’s disease,” said Deputy Chief of Staff for Acute Care Dr. Negin Nekahi. “We want them to feel supported, hopeful, and cared for throughout their health care journey.”
Coast Guard Veteran Tim Lenseigne, who also completed the program, said the staff made the biggest difference.
“My highlight was the staff,” he said. “When VA offers so much, the staff are the best source of sharing that with us.”
After completing the SPIRIT program, Veterans continue receiving care through outpatient services at VA Puget Sound via telehealth or in-person sessions at the American Lake and Seattle VA Medical Centers. Each Veteran receives a tailored treatment plan and resources, including at-home exercise videos. Some also join the local SPEAK OUT! group, a specialized speech therapy program focused on speaking with intent and rebuilding confidence through guided exercises and activities such as singing.
“Part of what makes this program so effective is the specialization of our providers,” said Inpatient Rehabilitation Program Manager Brennan Littleton. “They use their expertise to deliver targeted therapies that can greatly improve Veterans’ quality of life.”
A few weeks after completing the program, Cliff said he is working to incorporate what he learned into his daily routine. He added that the experience changed how he views VA care.
“I’m very happy I did that,” he said. “I've learned something new — the VA is not forgetting us. When I call, people answer."
Cliff has already begun outpatient physical therapy at the American Lake VA Medical Center and plans to continue building on the progress he made during the SPIRIT program.
VA Puget Sound also supports one of the largest research programs within VA, contributing to advances in care for Parkinson’s and other neurological diseases. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, research suggests links to both genetic and environmental factors, including herbicides. For some Veterans, Parkinson’s may be associated with exposure to certain herbicides during military service. Veterans who believe they were exposed — including to Agent Orange — may be eligible for disability compensation and health care. To learn more, visit VA’s disability compensation webpage.
For Cliff, Tim, and other Veterans in the SPIRIT program, the difference is already clear — stronger conversations, renewed confidence, and continued support close to home.
Tim’s wife said she plans to help him continue the exercises at home. “I’ll do the exercises with him,” she said. “It will be fun to do it together.”
Veterans interested in the SPIRIT program must be enrolled in or eligible for VA care and diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Those who believe they may be eligible should speak with their VA Puget Sound medical provider.
To learn more about Parkinson’s disease research and care at VA, visit VA’s Parkinson’s Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers webpage.