Testimonials - Dystonia

(In addition to this testimonial, you can read an article that Jeff Shair wrote for the National Spasmodic Torticollis Association)

Jeff Shair
When I started the Tai Chi class of Golden Breath, I had no idea of the extent of the benefits this would bring to me. SiBok Kassof, the instructor of Golden Breath and founder of this unique form of Tai Chi, brought changes in my life that I never could have predicted. My whole being, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual has improved immensely since joining the class in October.

I called SiBok when I knew that I could commit to his class on a regular basis. I found the Tai Chi instructor to be very caring. My gut feeling was confirmed on that first day I started his class. SiBok, who knew my condition, stated, “Jeff, you are in the right place and you are meant to be here”. This thought was very touching to me because I’m a very spiritual person, and I believe that circumstances don’t just happen by chance but for a reason. SiBok’s classes are very welcoming, as the class celebrates everyone’s birthday. They have social outings, including cruises at discount prices.

I first learned of the classes at a Dystonia support group which I attend due to a movement disorder caused by several years of taking medication. The name of the disease is Tardive Dyskinesia and has symptoms similar to Parkinson’s Disease.

I was introduced to Golden Breath American Tai Chi at my Dystonia support group in Paoli at their Saturday afternoon meeting. Karen, one of the instructors, gave a presentation of this unique form of Tai Chi, which emphasizes breathing as well as movement. When the presenters had the support group do the exercises in front of the class, I was very nervous. I just felt awkward doing these exercises in front of everybody. However, Karen, Ruth, and Tommy encouraged me to join the class in my neighborhood.

When I went to that first class on that Sunday afternoon in October, I was plagued with a myriad of problems. I could hardly put my left foot flat on the ground, and I mostly could only walk on the tips of my toes, as I struggled to walk even short distances. Coupled with this problem was my labored breathing, which frequently caused strangers to be concerned about my health. My breathing problem was so apparent they probably assumed that I was having an asthma attack, or worse, a heart attack.

Along with these physical ailments, I also would frequently grimace, a predominant symptom of this little known disorder (TD). My head would shake appearing as I had a nervous tic, but actually all the movements are involuntary and physically controlled by the nervous system. I also had no lateral movement of my neck. I frequently had trouble just turning my head to the side. In addition, a few years ago I had surgery on my hands because I had trouble straightening my fingers due to consistent computer use. After the operation, I couldn’t cup my hands to clap at a sporting event or concert like I once did.

Now after 9 months of class, all of the symptoms have miraculously dissipated. Furthermore, other physical benefits have occurred. While my cholesterol was usually around 300, now since I do the Tai Chi movements, it is 123. Also, as a diabetic, I am very concerned about my sugar. Currently, my sugar reading is half of what it once was. Not only has my cholesterol and sugar improved, I have also lost over 30lbs since my first class. People are astonished with how well I look.

Perhaps the most dramatic improvement I saw initially was when I went to visit my cousins in Florida last year. As I visited the tourist attractions and theme parks in Orlando, I needed a scooter to get around the park because of my physical difficulties. When returning this year, I amazed myself as well as my cousins by walking around the theme parks all day without assistance and without getting out of breath. This is when I first realized how much the class meant to me.

My problems with walking extended to my daily life as well. I had to persevere just to walk around the corner, given the difficulty with my gait, footing, and shortness of breath. Now I can walk at a fast clip, with an even gait and with very little effort. In fact, I actually enjoy walking now for the first time in many years. In addition to all of my improvements with walking, I can show my appreciation when attending concerts and sporting events because I am able to cup my hands to clap freely without the self-consciousness that I used to feel. All of my Tardive Dyskinesia symptoms have greatly improved including the grimacing, which is less frequent, my head no longer shakes, and I can turn my head where I can see behind me. The movements I learned in class have also relaxed my shoulders, added muscle tone, and improved my concentration. I have more focus since joining the class and have been reading books and newspapers regularly. With these improvements, I have regained my confidence.

I can’t say enough about the Tai Chi class. There have been so many improvements that I may have forgotten a few. I would like to thank SiBok Kassof for his dedication and love. I also want to thank Pat Cairo, who I work with independently each week. Pat is patient and has confidence in me and encourages me greatly. I highly recommend Golden Breath to people with and without physical difficulties. By dedicating yourself to this discipline, you can witness personal growth and develop a more positive outlook on life.