Parkinson's Foundation Helpline: 1-800-4PD-INFO

In this episode, Jessica and Brian met with Linda, a representative from the Parkinson's Foundation to talk about the helpline's purpose, the types of questions it addresses, and the importance of personalized support for individuals living with Parkinson's disease. The conversation highlights the helpline's role in providing context, resources, and emotional support to patients and caregivers alike, emphasizing the need for community and connection in navigating the challenges of Parkinson's.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Helpline

03:12 Understanding the Parkinson's Foundation Helpline

06:02 The Importance of Context in Helpline Support

08:55 Types of Questions and Concerns Addressed

11:55 Resources and Recommendations for Patients

15:08 Managing Expectations in Parkinson's Research

18:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Reach Out

This conversation delves into the often-overlooked topic of constipation in individuals with Parkinson's disease. We have Dr. Evans back on the show, and another friendly face, Roz Parish! The two of them talk about the prevalence of constipation as an early symptom of Parkinson's, personal experiences with managing this condition, the impact of medications, and the benefits of pelvic floor therapy. They also explore various tools and techniques that can aid in alleviating constipation, emphasizing the importance of understanding gut health in relation to Parkinson's. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to health, including diet, hydration, and understanding one's body.

00:00 Introduction to Constipation and Parkinson's

03:00 Understanding the Connection Between Gut Health and Parkinson's

05:58 Personal Experiences with Constipation

08:59 Medication and Its Impact on Constipation

12:05 Pelvic Floor Therapy: A New Approach

14:49 Tools and Techniques for Managing Constipation

19:22 Understanding Electrical Impulses and Safety

20:17 Exploring Dietary Changes and Their Impact

21:29 The Importance of Fiber in Diet

22:36 Identifying Symptoms and Finding Solutions

24:47 Seeking Professional Help and Advice

25:28 The Role of Diet in Managing Constipation

28:36 The Importance of Water and Fiber

30:05 Practical Tips for Better Bowel Movements

32:11 Understanding the Microbiome and Probiotics

39:10 Personalized Approaches to Gut Health

Brad was just 2 months into his Parkinson's diagnosis when he reached out to us, asking if we considered interviewing someone like him - someone who is brand new to this PD world. We have newly diagnosed stories but never anyone this new, so we asked him if he wanted to share his story. We talk about the importance of staying active, the challenges of medication management, and the emotional impact of the disease. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, the unpredictability of symptoms, and the significance of mental health and stress management in living with Parkinson's.

00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Parkinson's

03:00 Personal Experiences with Symptoms

05:50 Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment

09:04 Emotional Roller Coaster of Diagnosis

11:56 Coming Out and Community Support

14:46 Living with Parkinson's: Daily Challenges

18:05 The Importance of Exercise and Socialization

29:07 Embracing the Journey with Parkinson's

30:24 Lessons from Early Diagnosis

32:07 Living with Parkinson's: Progress and Adaptation

33:27 Coping with Cycles of Symptoms

35:00 The Importance of Sleep and Rest

36:39 Navigating Medication Changes

39:21 Finding Community and Support

41:16 Creating Connections in Isolation

43:40 Facing Uncertainty and Planning Ahead

46:31 Cognitive Concerns and Mental Health

48:34 Stress Management and Its Impact

51:54 Encouragement and Moving Forward

In this episode, Jessica and Brian talk with Samantha, the founder of the Parkinson Voice Project. They discuss the importance of speech therapy for individuals with Parkinson's, the unique challenges they face, and the significance of intentional speech. They talk about how awareness and access to resources for people with PD and caregivers are critical when it comes to commnication and therapy.

00:00 Introduction to Parkinson Voice Project

01:01 The Journey of Speech Therapy for Parkinson's

10:10 Understanding Speech Challenges in Parkinson's

18:02 The Importance of Intent in Speech Therapy

23:56 Accessing Speech Therapy and Resources

The intersection of Parkinson's disease and mental health with Dr. Taylor Rush from the Cleveland Clinic. In this episode, we explore the emotional challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson's, the role of psychology in managing these challenges, and the importance of caregiver dynamics. The conversation also delves into specific symptoms such as apathy, irritability, and hallucinations, emphasizing the need for connection and support in navigating the complexities of living with Parkinson's.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parkinson's and Mental Health

01:04 The Role of Psychology in Movement Disorders

03:45 Understanding Triggers and Symptoms

06:02 Addressing Apathy and Irritability

09:20 Navigating Caregiver Dynamics

12:00 Managing Hallucinations and Psychosis

18:45 The Importance of Connection and Support

27:11 Mental Health Challenges in Parkinson's

34:37 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, Nick Peters, a retired surgeon diagnosed with Young-onset Parkinson's, shares his personal experiences with Parkinson's disease (and cancer), including diagnosis, treatment options, and the impact of community support. He shares his personal experience using the new Vyalev pump, the challenges of medication management, and the importance of exercise. The conversation also touches on future considerations such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and the ongoing journey of living with Parkinson's.

00:00 Introduction to Parkinson's and Personal Experiences

02:58 Diagnosis Journey and Initial Reactions

06:08 Living with Parkinson's: Treatment and Challenges

08:58 Innovative Treatments: The Vial of Pump

11:55 The Impact of Exercise and Community Support

14:57 Reflections on Medication and Side Effects

17:58 Future Considerations: DBS and Ongoing Management

20:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Martha Carlin is back! And this time she is partnering with Lisa, a YOPD patient and President of Resolving Parkinson's. They are working on a documentary project aimed at sharing lived experience stories from patients to help shape research and treatment approaches. The discussion also highlights the need for a holistic approach to Parkinson's care, addressing not just medication but also lifestyle factors such as stress management and gut health.

00:00 The Importance of Patient Voices in Parkinson's Advocacy

09:59 Creating a New Paradigm for Parkinson's Care

19:51 Documentary Project: Sharing Lived Experiences

29:46 Innovative Approaches to Parkinson's Treatment

In this episode of The Secret Life of Parkinson's, Diane, a therapist and Parkinson's patient, shares her journey with the disease and how it intersects with her work in mental health. The conversation explores the challenges of socialization for those with Parkinson's, the importance of community support, and coping mechanisms for managing mental health. Diane emphasizes the need for therapy and the value of connecting with others who understand the struggles of living with Parkinson's.

00:00 Introduction to Parkinson's and Mental Health

03:10 Diane's Journey with Parkinson's

05:54 The Intersection of Therapy and Parkinson's

09:01 Socialization and Community Support

12:00 Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health

15:12 Navigating Medication and Treatment

17:57 Addressing Night Terrors and Hallucinations

20:44 Conclusion and Encouragement for Seeking Help