Table Tennis: Beyond Sport, A Bridge to Community and Hope

When people think of table tennis, the first images that come to mind are often fast-paced rallies, sharp spins, and international competition. For Tanvi and Aarav, however, the sport has evolved into something far beyond athletic performance. To them, table tennis has become a bridge — connecting people, serving the community, and offering hope.

Table Tennis for Parkinson’s: A Game of Hope

In October 2025, Tanvi and Aarav will be featured at the Parkinson Association of Northern California (PANC) Annual Education Conference, one of the largest Parkinson’s gatherings in the state. With over 800–1000 attendees, including physicians, therapists, researchers, caregivers, and community members, this conference is a leading platform for innovation and care.

They have been invited to lead a special demonstration session titled:“Table Tennis for Parkinson’s: A Game of Hope.”

Through this program, they will showcase how the sport is not only enjoyable, but also a meaningful therapeutic tool that improves motor function, strengthens confidence, and creates social bonds.

From Competition to Community

Tanvi and Aarav’s journey began on the competitive stage. With over six years of national-level training and tournament experience, they built the skills, discipline, and resilience required to excel in elite sports.

But through their nonprofit, Table Tennis For Life, they discovered another side of the game — its ability to heal, inspire, and bring people together.

At Micro Motion Table Tennis Academy in Pleasanton, California, the siblings host weekly therapeutic sessions for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. These sessions go beyond athletic drills: they are safe, supportive environments where participants rediscover joy, confidence, and connection.

The results have been remarkable. Participants who once struggled with shaky hands now rally with stability. Those who felt isolated now share laughter and camaraderie. Doubt has given way to renewed confidence.

The Power of Movement and Connection

Research shows that table tennis can help improve motor symptoms, balance, and coordination in individuals with Parkinson’s. But beyond the data, the most powerful evidence lies in the voices of participants:

• “I didn’t think I could try something new again. Table tennis makes me feel alive.”

• A volunteer reflected: “Watching someone rediscover joy through a simple rally is incredibly moving.”

To date, the Table Tennis For Life initiative has reached more than 500 people living with Parkinson’s. Many participants report not only physical improvements but also renewed social connection and a profound sense of hope.

A Vision for Broader Impact

The mission that drives Tanvi and Aarav is clear: to place a paddle in the hands of everyone who can benefit. Their vision extends beyond Parkinson’s to include individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other conditions.

At its core, they believe table tennis is not just about scoring points. It is about restoring joy, building confidence, and creating bonds that extend far beyond the table.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

For this opportunity, they express deep gratitude to Jan Whitney, Executive Director of PANC, for the platform and support. They also acknowledge the many volunteers, families, and community members who have stood beside them in their journey.

Their message is simple yet powerful:“Every rally reminds us that sport is not only about records and rankings — it is about impact, compassion, and community.”

Looking forward, Tanvi and Aarav hope to expand the reach of Table Tennis For Life, inspiring more people to discover the transformative power of the sport.

Composed at MMTTA headquarters in Pleasanton, CA — where table tennis continues to inspire growth, confidence, and community.