Parkinson’s and Me - Navigating Early Parkinson's: Essential Insights
By Daniel
Parkinson’s and Me - Navigating Early Parkinson's: Essential InsightsJul 24, 2021
4.3 A Day In The Life Of Part 2
In "Parkinson's in Me," Season 4, Episode 3, titled "A Day in the Life of Part 2," listeners are invited into the daily experiences of Daniel, a man diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease at 42. This episode continues the narrative from the previous one, offering a detailed and intimate portrayal of a day in Daniel’s life. He shares the nuanced challenges of living with Parkinson's, from managing medication around meals to the mental and emotional toll it takes. Daniel’s narrative is interspersed with moments of reflection and a strong personal philosophy centered on faith and resilience. He uses his platform to share his struggles and inspire others, pointing to the importance of faith and community support in facing life’s trials.
Listeners can expect a blend of personal anecdotes and broader insights into living with a chronic illness. Daniel discusses the variability of symptoms among those with Parkinson’s, emphasizing the unique nature of his journey compared to others. Throughout the episode, he candidly addresses the difficulties of maintaining normalcy at work and his strategies to manage his symptoms, like dictation software and AI tools. The episode explores the intersection of personal struggle, technological aid, and spiritual faith, as Daniel continually seeks to maintain his independence and productivity while coping with the realities of his condition. His storytelling provides a window into the life of someone navigating significant health challenges with grace and determination.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com
4.2 A Day In The Life Of Part 1
In this episode of "Parkinson's and Me," Daniel shares a raw and personal account of his daily life with Parkinson's disease. He takes listeners through a typical day, starting from the moment he wakes up to his morning routine of medication, prayers, and exercises. Throughout the day, Daniel confronts the challenges posed by Parkinson's, such as muscle stiffness, nausea, and anxiety about his future ability to work and provide for his family. Despite these difficulties, he maintains a positive outlook and strives to make a difference in the lives of others.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com
4.1 Steal My Show
In Season 4 of his podcast, "Steal My Show," Daniel embraces a shift towards a more selfless outlook on life. He grapples with the decision to disclose his condition to colleagues and friends, acknowledging both the fear of potential consequences and the relief it may bring.
Reflecting on the legacy he wishes to leave behind, Daniel finds inspiration in a song by TobyMac, surrendering his life to a higher purpose and recognizing true fulfillment in serving others. Despite grappling with grief over his diagnosis, Daniel views it as a wake-up call rather than a burden. His message of authenticity and resilience resonates with listeners, inviting them to embrace life's challenges and strive to make a positive impact.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com
3.10 A Father With Parkinsons
The episode offers valuable insights into coping strategies and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook despite the challenges of Parkinson's disease. Daniel's concept of "speaking life" highlights the power of positive thinking and intentionality in shaping one's perspective. For those with Parkinson's or their loved ones, this emphasis on focusing on the blessings and creating meaningful experiences becomes a source of inspiration and hope.
Daniel's determination to provide a strong foundation for his son while dealing with Parkinson's serves as a beacon of strength, encouraging others to find ways to be present and involved in their families' lives despite the limitations imposed by the disease. Overall, the episode offers valuable support and encouragement for individuals and families affected by Parkinson's, making it a compelling listen for those seeking understanding and strategies to navigate life with the condition.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.9 Back From The Future
In this inspiring episode of the podcast "Parkinson's and Me," host Daniel, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2019, shares his personal journey with the disease. Despite the challenges, Daniel has found a unique focus and determination. He shares his experience of stepping into a coaching role for his son's baseball team, a decision that has allowed him to actively participate in life and create lasting memories.
This episode is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying engaged with life, even when faced with physical limitations. Daniel also discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on the present. He shares his experience with a neuropsychological evaluation test, which has provided him with insights into his cognitive strengths and weaknesses. Furthermore, he talks about using the app "Elevate" to work on areas of struggle. This episode is a must-listen for anyone living with Parkinson's, offering valuable insights into managing the disease and emphasizing the importance of taking action in the present to improve life in the future.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.8 Out Of The Shadows
Altering our perspective is a very difficult task. We have a lifetime of learned experience that dictates how we perceive life. For most of us, this includes some coping mechanisms that would not be described as healthy. This episode examines a few simple ways to reverse the cycle. As Yoda from Star Wars says, “You must unlearn what you have learned.
The last half of the episode is a creative experiment. Daniel shares how the movie “Legend of Baggar Vance” serves as an important reminder of how he wants to live. One of the themes of the movie is that life isn’t a game you either win or lose. It's a game that can only be played.
Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease is similar to being buried by consistent avalanches of bad news and worsening symptoms. It’s easy to forget what made living so important. This why reminders such as this are so important. Slip on some headphones and find a quiet place. You are invited to this creative process.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.7 Transitions
Continual transitions are a part of life. These combinations of our experiences combine to makes us who we are. One of the challenges living with Parkinson's Disease is the feeling of hopelessness. It's as if the walls are closing in on you, and there isn't a route for you to escape. However, what if you were able to change your perspective? How could that alter the way that you look at life? This episode addresses this challenge.
Daniel is realizing the importance of looking at events in his life using a different mindset. If we choose to see events as going always turning out poorly for us, then that is exactly what will occur. It's a self-fulling prophecy. Another option is to look for the best things that are we experiencing. The self-fulling prophecy works both ways.
Can we change our mindsets to look for experiences that will encourage us? Daniel shares ways that have been successful for him. These include some mental tricks that have helped him to manage and short-circuit dangerous thoughts that can get out of control. It's no surprise that if we choose "life", then we can better control our thoughts. As a result, we can capitalize on positivity which provides us a biological advantage compared to brains that are neutral or negative.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.6 Romantizing The Past
The road ahead is full of incredible challenges. After the diagnosis of Parkison's Disease, it’s easy to push away the future and live in the past. It's important to realize that we remember only the best days while wearing our rose-colored glasses. We forget the average and mundane days and the anxiety that we were feeling. Living in the past keeps us from experiencing the possibility of joy that lies ahead.
Daniel shares the results of a recent appointment he had with his Movement Disorder Specialist.
Having decreased levels of energy is very common in those diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Daniel provides some of his strategies in order to keep moving forward even with the lack of energy.
Daniel continues to keep his diagnosis a secret from everyone except a select few. His reasoning is simple. To keep working for as long as possible before alerting his employer. However, the reality is that he will not be able to keep it up for too much longer. Once he shares the diagnosis with his employer, that is when he will notify everyone else about the Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis. This approach is littered with its own consequences.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.5 Hard To Rest
People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) often notice that their symptoms are worse when they are under stress. In addition to life stress, people with PD may experience anxiety as part and parcel of their PD itself, caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Anxiety and stress are two different things, but can often manifest themselves in similar ways, making it challenging to tell the difference.
Daniel identifies his anxieties and how they lead to stress. Since one of his personal goals is to "Speak Life" then it's very important for him to strike a balance. However, if he is not able to rest then the result is more complications with the progression of P.D. What can we do to lower anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve our quality of life?
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.4 Speak Life
Daniel and Bryan discuss the decision to speak words of compassion and encouragement that has benefited the progression of Parkinson's Disease. Daniel labels this decision as "Speak Life." It's based on a song of the same name.
Proverbs 11:17 “Your own soul is nourished when you are kind; it is destroyed when you are cruel.”
Proverbs 16:24 “Kind words are like honey. They are sweet to the spirit and bring healing to the body.”
Choosing to speak encouraging words may be a change of mindset. It focuses attention on the importance of how the words we use to speak can be used to build up. Speaking life not only helps those we surround ourselves with. Also, Daniel shares how he has started to reassess his perception of life. The attempt is difficult but starts with small steps.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
3.3 Greatest Challenges
In Episode 3.3, Daniel unpacks three of his greatest challenges to living well after being diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson's disease. This episode is inspired by news regarding the medical community. The community is attempting to understand more about P.D. Specifically, what it's like being diagnosed while still needing to raise kids, taking care of a family, and preparing for the future. Since Parkinson's disease has not been eradicated, the greater the number of those diagnosed each year. The number is continuing to swell at an uncontrollable rate.
Hopefully, one day, this episode will help the medical community to get into the mind of someone diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. Listen as Daniel continues to move forward. As usual, you will hear insights that you may have thought about. This podcast is about Daniel continuing to rearrange his future so he can stay focused on living the best life that he can before it may be too late.
Daniel's Greatest Challenges
1. Movement
2. Career
3. Anxiety
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com.
3.2 Evolving Expectations
We have a tendency to grow confident in our expectations as we grow older. Despite how hard we have prepared for the future, Parkinson's is similar to a bomb being dropped. It causes a titanic shift. When the smoke clears, we are left with a life that doesn't line up with our previous goals. Parkinson's doesn't discriminate based on gender or ethnicity. Parkinson's is patient and takes its time slowly picking away our lives. Left with shattered expectations, it is imperative to begin reassigning new goals. If we don't, then we are in jeopardy of being stuck in the past.
Joined by his brother, Daniel and Bryan discuss how important it is to add new experiences. Daniel outlines the methods that he is attempting to redefine expectations. Also, Daniel shares his succeesses and failures in an attempt to repurpose life.
Finally, Daniel talks with his son. They talk about what Parkinson's Disease looks like from a 13-year-old's point of view. Being a parent is difficult enough. However, with the additon of Parkinson's Disease, it adds to the complexity.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com
3.1 The Slow March Forward
For this season opener, Daniel has a conversation with his best friend. His wife. As a Care Partner, she sits on the front row of his life. She witnesses the effects that the progression of Parkinson's has on her husband. The couple has been married for nearly 20 years. In this episode, they discuss the important steps that need to be made to keep the marriage fresh and vibrant.
A key first step involves providing each other the understanding that they are trying their best. If communication breaks down or wasn't there, to begin with then unreasonable expectations are placed on each other. Finally, listen as the team provides valuable steps regarding the practical management of the progression. May you be encouraged. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast.
If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.12 Seasons Ending
This is the final episode for Season 2. We remove the script as Bryan, and Daniel has a casual conversation about the current season in Daniel's life. Looking back on 2021, Daniel shares his greatest encouragements and hardest difficulties having Parkinson's disease at such a young age. Daniel covers family, future, parenting, and the importance of changing the narrative compared to allowing the disease. Get ready for an encouraging and real look at Parkinson's and me.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.11 Be Curious
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation for this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
The progression of P.D. chips away at the physical and mental fortitude of those unfortunate enough to be caught in its grasp. Daniel shares a very difficult symptom that threatens his ability to communicate. It’s his ability to effectively use his voice. The decrease of the vocal cords' ability to speak loudly enough is mostly found in those with the later stages of Parkinson's disease. Also, the vocal cords' ability to work effectively is compromised.
The decision not to become a victim is an incredible way to balance what is being taken away. Also, the repercussions of our choices to move forward have an amazing effect on the life that is still yet to come.
Refusing to be a victim of this disease Daniel puts together his strategies for effectively living with P.D. This was an episode that took many months to put together. We hope you enjoy and receive a blessing from it.
2.10 The Importance of Support
Daniel speaks with the leader of his Young Onset Support Group, Barbara Mooney. Barbara is the American Parkinson's Disease Association's Georgia Chapter Coordinator. She brings her experience to highlight the importance of joining a support group. Topics that are covered include:
1. Determining some of the greatest struggles for those with Parkinson's.
2. Differences between a YOPD focused group and those that are older.
3. Support for those diagnosed whose family may not support the person or a spouse that may have left.
4. Support for care partners whose spouse may have shut down.
5. Ways to get involved in a local support group.
6. Resources for those wanting to learn more about Parkinson's disease and how to live the best life possible.
Tap or click to learn more about the American Parkinson's Disease Association. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation for this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.9 Trek to Mindfulness
Improving how we choose to perceive the world is a skill. Like any skill, the more you practice the better you get at it. The more consistent you practice the better chance mindfulness becomes habit-forming.
The practice of mindfulness and the calmness it provides leads to a decrease in tremor, muscle stiffness, movement slowness, problems with gait, and sleeping problems. Daniel shares his strategy to assign designated times to focus on the problems that need to be addressed. By assigning the thoughts that lead to anxiety to a specific time allows one to be free during non "office hours".
Finally, Daniel and Bryan cover the news about the Food and Drug Administration's approval of Medtronic’s technologically advanced deep brain stimulation (DBS) system which is designed to more precisely target motor symptoms. Also, learn about the Silver Sneakers program designed to offer incentives for those with disabilities by providing free gym memberships.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.8 The Spree of '83
Bryan hosts this episode that highlights how those who do not have Parkinson's can make an incredible impact on the lives of those afflicted with this horrible disease. Joining Bryan is the wife of legendary country songwriter Freddy Powers and the author of the book "The Spree of '83: The Life and Times of Freddy Powers", Jake Brown. If you haven't heard of Freddy Powers, you may have heard of Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, or George Jones. Freddie Powers was the prolific songwriter responsible for more than 10 number one hits for Merle Haggard. Powers also wrote songs cut by Ray Charles, Stoney LaRue, Suzy Bogguss, and Big & Rich.
Freddy was diagnosed with Parkinson's. However, he refused to let P.D. define him. Powers thrived from the support of his wife Catherine to those such as Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Tanya Tucker, John Rich / Big and Rich, Mary Sarah, and Pauline Reese.
Listen as Catherine and Jake recount how Freddy continued to invest in the lives of others. Even deep into the progression of Parkinson's, Freddy kept his sense of humor while inviting others into his life. He passed away in 2016. The musician founded the Freddy Powers Parkinson Organization to raise funds for research into the disease.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.7 Makes Me Who I Am
"I believe what I believe is what makes me who I am". In this episode, Daniel explains how the world of science and technical achievement is not enough to place our hope. Those with Parkinson's understand how little is known about how the brain works. There is so little that is understood about Parkinson's. Research does not always bear encouraging fruit.
In the darkness, we must answer the question of whether the Lord is who He says He is. Denominations have strived to have the answers we are looking for. Catholics, Baptist, Methodist, Lutherans, Assemblies of God, etc. Nor does Science. God is not bound by these limitations.
Through creative analogies, Daniel describes how we sabotage the blessings in our life because of our distrust in the supernatural. We dig empty wells in the sand to discover that we can't find water on our own. This leads to exhaustion and apathy. The Lord is offering us a cup of living water. Yet, we continue to dig new wells. How can we hand over such an important part of our life to a God that we do not see?
Many of us harbor great resentment and anger toward God due to the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. It's understandable. Parkinson's is an unforgiving taskmaster. However, we are the children of a huge God and we can beat on his chest. Parkinson's disease does not have an exit strategy at this time. The Lord is never early and never late. Help is on the way.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. Call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.6 Letter To The Care Partner
Parkinson's disease not only affects the person diagnosed but drastically changes the life of the care partner. Often, the care partner's responsibility is placed upon our spouse. The care partner is one who works with the person with Parkinson's. They are part of the team as you continue to play an active role in your own health.
The spouse's responsibility increases when the transition occurs from being a care partner to becoming a care provider. Also known as a caregiver, the spouse intervenes in the life of the person with P.D. because they are no longer able to complete day-to-day activities.
This transition is incredibly difficult for those with spouses with Parkinson's. This episode is inspired by the book “Advice from a Parkinson’s Wife” by Barbara Sheklin Davis. Bryan and Daniel cover the struggles that are common with spouses that are care partners and caregivers. Also, the brothers discuss what the person with Parkinson's can begin to do today that will ease some of the burdens that their spouse will face.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.5 Trying to Communicate
As Parkinson's progresses, it complicates our ability to maintain relationships with others. This arrives in the form of facial masking and voice impairments. Facial masking affects the muscles of the face, mouth, and throat that causes problems with speech and swallowing. Signs of voice impairment include others commenting that you are speaking slowly or that they cannot hear or understand you clearly. This leads to people with Parkinson's withdrawing from others which can make things worse
These problems tend to increase as the disease progresses but may occur at any stage. Join Daniel as he speaks about the importance of catching these symptoms early so that we can extend the quality of facial expressivity and communicating with our voice. It's important to "flip the script" by actively pushing your voice by training or therapy. Also, learn how the muscles of our face can be manipulated to delay the masking that is common in Parkinson's.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation in this Parkinson's podcast. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.4 A Step Back
Don't worry! This is not another story that is full of depressive tones. This isn't an episode of longing for the past but presented in a more informative format. Hopefully, this episode will help others to better understand ways to navigate the early years.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.3 Sit a Spell
Daniel covers the above topics and displays his vulnerability. What can you do when Parkinson's appears to have ripped away from the ability to choose a future? Also, if you have Parkinson's, do you feel that in some way you are being punished for a sin you have committed? As a consequence, do you feel you have had "Parkinson's" stamped on your head? Because of your condition that you have been forced to the back of the line. If so, this episode is for you.
Daniel invites you to "sit a spell". Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.2 The Unbeatable Opponent
Bryan returns in this episode after recovering from Covid-19. In this episode, the brothers cover tips about how to rebound after an appointment with a Movement Disorder Specialist that did not live up to what we had hoped for.
Also, the guys use the analogy of a boxer being thrown into a ring against an opponent that is not undefeatable. Why do we continue to take a beating while standing toe-to-toe against Parkinson's? We can't beat Parkinson's for now! If we perceive that we will only be victorious when Parkinson's is defeated then we will lose the match. What if we are able to devise a strategy that allows us to still win without our opponent being beaten?
Finally, Daniel updates us on how his misperceptions nearly cost his relationships with his best friends.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
2.1 Picking Your Poison
Parkinson's is known as a movement disorder. If we look deeper into how Parkinson's manifests itself, there are two different types of movement disorders. There are Bradykinesia and Dyskinesia. Bradykinesia appears as a reduction in automatic movements. Examples include slowness of blinking, swinging of the arms while walking, or just slowness of actions. Bradykinesia is a cardinal symptom in the diagnosis of PD. A person must have bradykinesia along with a tremor or rigidity.
Dyskinesia involves people having uncontrolled, erratic, and writing movements. These can be slow and fluid or rapid and jerking. Dyskinesia is a complication of some Parkinson's medication and not a symptom of the disease itself. It occurs with long-term levodopa use to treat Parkinson's.
Treatment for Parkinson's requires taking enough Levedopa to control your symptoms. By taking the medication it eventually will result in the onset of dyskinesia. Each time a PWP takes their medication, we must make a choice. Do we continue to poison our body to treat one movement disorder for another?
Season 2 Episode 1 is packed full of honest conversation that strives to make the best of this situation.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me
1.16 Who I Am Becoming
In this episode, Daniel explores the challenges that come when you dislike who you are becoming when facing the progression of Parkinson's. There are many things we can do to prepare for these changes. Especially, when you are able to prepare for what is ahead. What happens when the condition attacks when you are the least ready? This presents itself in many forms, Examples are lashing out against those you love or an embarrassing moment in front of a group.
Daniel relays recent examples of when this happened to him and the self-loathing that soon took over. How much of these moments are truly ourselves? Are they the result of the progression that is expected with Parkinson's? Finally, Daniel shares discoveries that have benefited him to start the new year.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656.
1.15 Moving Forward
As we close out Season 1, it is important to look back at where we have been so we can look and keep moving forward. In previous episodes, many questions have been asked and Daniel has revealed new perspectives he has gained. In this episode, Daniel and Bryan update listeners on recent medication changes, ways to reinvent yourself, and goals to move toward.
Parkinson's can be an enemy that makes unreasonable demands on our lives. It's understandable to be crushed under this unrelenting force that demands continual change. How can we not be victims of this? We must acknowledge that we are not alone. Parkinson's is currently the fastest growing neurological disease in the world. As a result, millions of people are living with Parkinson's but also, and encouragingly, fighting to end it. Though there is not a cure for P.D., it remains important to unite our voices. The newly formed PD Avengers is working toward the goal of ending Parkinson's. Please join us! Become a PD Avenger at pdavengers.com.
Finally, Season 2 of Parkinson's and Me will focus on how to manage depression and anxiety. We will look deeper into how Parkinson's affects a person's mental health and how we can navigate through this complicated disease.
Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us at parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com or visit our site parkinsonsand.me If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.14 Friendships That Change
We lose friendships as we grow older and life becomes more complicated. What about the friendships you still have? How are these relationships affected when others learn you have Parkinson's disease? Some may not have been able to handle the news while others may have dug deeper and helped you face the challenge. In order to pursue this topic, Daniel takes you into his world. Discover his transformative experience that is full of grief, self-assessment, and hope. The experience exposes the sadness of losing friendships that have served as an anchor in Daniel's life for decades. What is the lesson that can be learned? No matter how our loved ones choose to react, we need to communicate with them because they don't understand the disease. Also, in this episode, Daniel and Bryan discuss how Parkinson's patients are overwhelmed when they realize there are limitations to what they are able to do. It begins to define them. They no longer see the possibilities of what can still be done. Stop merely surviving and realize that you have the gift of life ahead. As always we still have a say in how Parkinson's defines us. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave us a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.13 A Man With Parkinson's
Episode 13 explores how Parkinson’s can strip away the image of being a strong male. As men, we want to provide for our families, protect the ones we love, and be recognized for our independence. Parkinson’s chips away at this image by attacking us physically, emotionally, and mentally. Despite being recently diagnosed, Daniel is already struggling with not being a provider or a strong father figure for his son. Bryan and Daniel attempt to discover a way to redefine what it means to be a strong male when your body stops working as it should. You are not alone in having a difficult time transitioning from a pre to post-Parkinson’s man. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.12 Parkinson's and Faith
With Parkinson's, you experience crushing anxiety and overwhelming depression. This does not include the unrelenting progression of the disease that seems to rip your ability to move properly a piece at a time. The effects of Parkinson's makes it so difficult to accurately describe what it is to experience the degradation to those who want to help the most. How can you move forward with life when the one you have is being taken so unceremoniously? Daniel and Bryan dive into the importance of faith. The faith in a God that actively pursues a relationship with his children has imprinted Daniel's life before and after the diagnosis of Parkinson's. Faith is defined as complete trust or confidence in someone or something. Listen as Daniel and Bryan workout the enormous complication Parkinson's adds to life and one who has faith. Special thanks goes to TobyMac. If you would like to leave us a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.11 The Other Side
Most of the time, we hear about how Parkinson's affects the person diagnosed. In this special episode, Daniel and his wife discuss how Parkinson's has impacted her life. This is a very vulnerable and honest account from a person who is on the other side of Parkinson's. It is a fight on two fronts. She is forced to watch as her husband slowly degenerate. At the same time, she must deal with how the diagnosis of Parkinson's will alter her future. "The Other Side" will speak to those who are directly impacted by Parkinson's but who do not have the disease. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave us a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.10 Parkinson's and Perseverance
Dealing with Parkinson's is difficult for both the individual and those who are forced to experience it. Having or creating a support group is essential if someone is going to experience true success in battling PD. In this episode, we have a special guest, Ian Rodriguez, who received his diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease when he was only 25 years old. 18 years later he refuses to allow Parkinson's to define him. He is the recipient of the Rising Star Award from the Parkinson's Foundation for 2020. Ian opens up about the trials and successes that he has experienced in his life. It's an incredibly inspiring testimony that you don't want to miss. Ian covers influential organizations such as Neuroboxing and Rocky Steady Boxing that have played an important role in his battle against this progressive disease. Join Daniel, Bryan, and special guest Ian for this episode of Parkinson's and Perseverance. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.9 Hoping and Coping
We all have different ways of coping with the progression of Parkinson's Disease. Some people seek out ways to defy the stereotypes associated with P.D. Others may not be able to handle this new life. They break under the crushing weight that is Parkinson's. How do you cope? The hope for a cure is a powerful motivator to keep moving. Daniel shares an encouraging new study published in Nature. There may be a potentially powerful and clinically possible approach to treating neurodegeneration by replacing lost neurons. Join Daniel, Bryan, and their special guest. Don't miss this episode. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.8 Reinvent Yourself
In the wake of Covid-19, we are living in a "new normal." The resurgence of the pandemic has demonstrated our difficulty with changing our lifestyle and behavior. Living with Parkinson's forces us to adapt to another "new normal." Short of a miracle cure, there is not a way back to a life without Parkinson's. Daniel admits he is a foreigner in a foreign land without a way to escape. The good news is we do not have to do it alone. In order to move forward, and continue to accomplish the goals we strive for it is necessary to reinvent parts of our lives. To adapt to the progression of the disease, Daniel shares some of the strategies he is still learning to overcome his apathy and depression. Parkinson's has provided him clarity of purpose. Join Daniel and Bryan for an episode that explores the mindset of reinventing yourself. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.7 An Interlude
Daniel goes it alone in this in-between episode. There a few things we can do to combat the effects of Parkinson's. However, physicians and researchers seem to universally agree that exercise is the most effective. In fact, The Parkinson’s Outcomes Project showed that people with PD who started exercising earlier and a minimum of 2.5 hours a week, experienced a slower decline in quality of life compared to those who started later. Establishing early exercise habits is essential to overall disease management. For Daniel, the mechanism that helped inspire the motivation for him to wake up early in the morning to walk was the Apple Watch. Daniel explains how completing three simple circles on the watch moved him from being ambiguous to actively engaged. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.6 Parkinson's and Marriage
1.5 Ain't Nobody Got Time For That
When you learn that you have Parkinson's, it changes everything. The diagnosis of Parkinson's removes the illusion that you have the same quality of time left compared to your peers. This is a gift and a curse. However, this understanding can provide you with the strength and clarity of purpose. Join Daniel and Bryan for this episode that asks the question. Are you ready to get busy living or dying? The guys cover the complications that Parkinson's can cause when choosing to get busy living. The recent coronavirus pandemic makes remaining social and staying active that much harder. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.4 Parkinson's and a Career
The current economic volatility is a source of great anxiety for everyone. Add a new diagnosis of Parkinson's and you have the formulation of a crisis. What can those with Parkinson's whether employed or not employed expect with a disease that is progressive in nature? Daniel gets even more personal by admitting some of his greatest fears. Daniel and Bryan explore these anxieties along with other concerns. Also, this episode tackles what a person can do if they are unemployed and have Parkinson's. "Parkinson's and a Career" attempt to find a balance between the honesty of your condition versus enabling yourself to keep moving forward. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.3 Telling People You Know
Telling someone that you have Parkinson's is a very personal choice. It may be years later before you make the decision to tell others about Parkinson's disease. It makes you vulnerable. How do you tell your spouse, kids, parents, etc? Daniel walks listeners through his experience so that it can possibly help you. His son was 10 years old when he decided that his son needed to know. He was afraid that if he didn't tell him then what would be the consequences if his son heard it from others. Also, Daniel explores his own fear of telling others while deciding if his career would be limited if too many people know. It's very complicated. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.2 Why Grieve?
Daniel discusses the importance of participating in the grieving process. Moving through the steps of this process has played a significant role in how he has dealt with the diagnosis of Parkinson’s. We know there is a process of grief when we lose a loved one. The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is the end of life as a person knows it. The direction of our lives is ground to a complete stop. The need to grieve the loss of that life is valuable! We don’t heal all at once but over time the emotions ease. We need to move forward and redefine what life is with the disease. Eventually, the hope is to free up the energy and not continue to live in the past. To keep walking ahead emotionally instead of giving up. Also, Bryan joins Daniel to help guide the conversation of the podcast. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.
1.1 Tribulation Road
Welcome to the podcast. Allow me to introduce myself. I'm an ordinary person that you bump into on the street. Possibly I am the person that you work with and is trying to hide their symptoms. That person is me. 9 months ago I was diagnosed with "Young Onset Parkinson's". Now I am struggling to prepare for the rough road ahead. However, I must hold onto hope that I have a wonderful life ahead. Join me for this inaugural episode of Parkinson's and Me. Add your experience and suggestions to the conversation. If you would like to leave Daniel a voice message and you live in the U.S. call 1-706-873-1656. Email us parkinsonsandmepodcast@gmail.com. If you have the Anchor app please leave a message at https://anchor.fm/parkinsonsandme.