This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in August 2017. I haven’t seen my brothers Bruce and Dan or my sister Tracy since I received the news. That changed on January 31, 2019. Our Mom, who lives in Florida, invited us all down to stay in a beach house on Anna Marie Island on the Gulf Coast near Tampa. My siblings arrived separately along with some of their kids who now have their own kids. There were 18 of us in total. I was nervous. We haven’t vacationed together in 20 years. When we do get together for holidays or special events it is separated by years and we’re only together for a few hours at a time. And still, inevitably, someone ends up crying. But even before the family reunion part, I was nervous about flying. Vancouver B.C. to Tampa, Florida with a stop in Minneapolis, Minnesota is a long stretch of flying. I was concerned about timing my medication correctly as we skipped through time zones. I was certain my feet and legs would cramp and stiffen on the flight. This would be my first time traveling with walking sticks. And what if I start to tremor? What if I have an anxiety attack in the airport? What if… Deep breath. I can tell you now the anticipation was far more anxious than the trip. Everything was great. Here’s how I handled the airport. I wanted to be comfortable and confident, so I wore layers of loose fitting clothing including a shirt with a pocket for easy access to my passport and boarding pass. I used a backpack for carry-on items including a book, phone chargers, water, healthy snacks, and lots of Levodopa. (Do not pack your meds in checked baggage. I was happy to have it with me when we ran into seven hours of delays on our return trip.) Anytime I am in crowds, I use my walking sticks, so they came along for the ride too. When we checked in at the airline counter, I alerted them that I have Parkinson’s and would like to have a wheel chair or golf cart assistance at my layover in Minneapolis. I wanted to make sure I made the connection and didn’t exhaust myself traversing through four concourses. I also traveled with my wife and son, which gave me extra eyes and ears and peace of mind if I lost focus or became disoriented maneuvering the airport hallways and crowds. We always opted to pre-board to take extra time to get on board and get settled. Once on the plane, I sat in the aisle seat to give myself quick access to stand up if I started to feel cramping or an urgent need to use the facilities. I collapsed my walking sticks and put them in the overhead storage. I stretched my feet and legs as much as possible during the flight and drank water to stay hydrated. The days we flew were long days, and my pill schedule was out of whack a bit, but I was able to take it in stride and slept like a baby each of those nights. The reunion was great. Lots of stories, laughter and reconnecting. On this episode, you’ll hear more of my journey to Florida including a stop at Universal Studios and our attempt to get an Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) to avoid long lines and a discussion with my brothers, sister and me. I ask them what it’s like seeing me in the flesh with Parkinson’s, how PD has impacted them and their families, and we try to recalibrate our relationships with each other. They also pepper me with a couple behind the scenes podcast questions you might enjoy.  If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us:parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmayer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Special thanks to Bruce Gifford, Dan Gifford, Tracy Cherry, Marty Gifford, and Rebecca Gifford For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer  

In this episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s we explore the role of the caregiver. Seeing as I’m a person with Parkinson’s and not a caregiver, my caregiver and wife Rebecca is featured prominently along with my co-host Niki Reitmayer and other caregivers Noel MacDonald and John Parkhurst. At the end of the episode, I chime in with a quick interview with Dr. Robert Duff about what caregivers need to do to make sure they’re taking care of themselves. At the end of the episode, Niki mentions a few resources for caregivers from Parkinson Canada which can be found here:   Caregiving Webinar https://vimeo.com/168664929 Caregiver “Am I in Balance?” worksheet https://www.parkinson.ca/wp-content/uploads/Am-I-in-balance-taking-care.pdf Aside from being a wife, caregiver, mom, home school teacher, family chef and chauffeur, Rebecca is a writer. In fact, she’s a great writer. This week, for the podcast notes, I invited her to put pen to paper to express in her own words what it means to be a caregiver to someone with Parkinson’s.   The following is written by Rebecca Gifford, caregiver and wife of Larry Gifford   It happens all the time, all over the world. Two people love each other. You build a relationship, a partnership, and ultimately share a commitment and a life. You grow and make plans, hopeful for the future. Somewhere in the back of your head you know that something could happen that feels like the universe having a good chuckle at your expectations. It’s easy to dismiss these thoughts as “not right now” or “perhaps when we’re older.” Then one day you hear a faint belly laugh. One of you is diagnosed with something frightening, and everything changes. Of course everything shifts for the person with the disease, but the changes are as profound for those closest to them. Just as all families who are faced with a diagnosis do, we discovered a new path the day Larry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. As his partner and wife, when it appeared before me I took his hand so we can walk it together. Sometimes it is joyful and beautiful—the opportunity to tell our story, to make a difference and connect with a remarkable community; the opportunity to offer life-shaping lessons to our son; a chance to clarify, simplify and rebalance our life. Sometimes it is sad or infuriating or frightening—grieving our pre-PD life, seeking balance in an ever-changing situation, adjusting to Larry’s uneven physical and energetic capacities, shifting the balance of our parenting roles, and facing endless uncertainty. Larry and I are reexamining and redefining our roles in our marriage, knowing we likely will need to do this again and again as the disease progresses. We are re-prioritizing our daily lives, while also discovering that often self-care means we can’t meet the expectations of those around us, including each other. And on and on. Those who have been partners of people with Parkinson’s for much longer than I have know that the above lists will get much longer before the food truck pulls away. For us and so many, the growing pains are real. We all know that everyone’s journey is different. But as partners and most trusted caregivers, we have a front row seat for our loved one’s experience. We may not be experiencing the disease directly, but we have an important role. We aren’t just helpers, healers and emotional support. We are the witnesses, the observers. We see their highs and lows, are inspired by their strength and humor, and are empathetic to their worries and grief. We are sitting beside them as they drive the rollercoaster, an extra pair of eyes and ears on the track. This can be just as challenging, but also just as enlightening. We can and are supporting them and choosing the spot beside our dear ones. Our journey isn’t easy, but it’s full of all the thrills and lessons that a rich life brings.   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Noel MacDonald, Marty Gifford, John Parkhurst, Dr. Robert Duff from The Hardcore Self Help Podcast Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/duffthepsych Twitter:https://twitter.com/DuffThePsych Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/duffthepsych/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych And special thanks to my wife and caregiver Rebecca Gifford. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca.   Parkinson’s doesn’t necessarily lead to cognitive impairment, but it can. The threat alone though makes  think that every time I forget a word, have trouble with complex issues or can’t complete my Sudoku that I might be leaking brain power. Likely, I’m just freaking myself out. However, for peace of mind, there are ways to monitor and test cognitive function. I know in one my less grounded moments of perceived cognition erosion, my neurologist ran me through a battery of memory exercises. I checked out fine. Additionally, there neuropsychologists who work with neurologists to help evaluate cognitive abilities. Dr. Robert Duff, host of the Hard Core Self Help podcast, is a neuropsychologist who works with Parkinson’s patients on a regular basis. In this Extra Dosage, Dr. Duff and I speak candidly about Parkinson’s possible impact on the brain, mental health issues with Parkinson’s, what people can expect if going through a battery of neuropsych tests, and what he’s learned about PD after treating hundreds of patients. Additionally, he explains why it might be beneficial for everyone with Parkinson’s to take up a new hobby.   If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Special thanks to Dr. Robert Duff from The Hardcore Self Help Podcast Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/duffthepsych Twitter: https://twitter.com/DuffThePsych Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/duffthepsych/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych   For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

In this episode, Niki and I talk to my colleagues and bosses about how their adjusting to my PD diagnosis, get advice from my neurologist Dr. Jonathon Squires, Neuropsychologist Dr. Robert Duff, and employment lawyer Lior Samfiru. I also chat with Jim Redmond about being a teacher with PD and Jonny Acheson about adjustments he’s had to make as an emergency room doctor who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Kathryn Stewart, Dustin Collins, Dr. Jonathon Squires, Jim Redmond, Jonny Acheson, and Troy Reeb. Also Thank you to @SickboyPodcast – check them out here http://sickboypodcast.com/ Follow them on Twitter Brian Stever                     @SteverBrian Taylor MacGillvary           @Taymacgillivary Jeremie Saunders           @JeremieSaunders Dr. Robert Duff from The Hardcore Self Help Podcast Website: https://www.duffthepsych.com You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/duffthepsych Twitter:https://twitter.com/DuffThePsych Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/duffthepsych/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/duffthepsych   Lior Samfiru B. A. (hons.), LL.B., partner Samfiru Tumarkin LLP Website: www.stlawyers.ca   Twitter: https://twitter.com/stlawyers And special thanks to my wife Rebecca Gifford. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ Here is a link to an article about Young Onset Parkinson’s which also discusses employment The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca.   One of the main intentions behind this podcast was to demystify the Parkinson’s experience by sharing my story, the stories of people I meet along my journey and encourage others to share their Parkinson’s stories.  When we share stories, we raise awareness of Parkinson’s, which attracts more donor dollars, to do more research, which hopefully one day will lead to finding a cure. I am encouraged from the responses I have received and am happy to report that as a community, those of us with Parkinson’s are sharing more of what we’re going through. To that end, in this Extra Dosage episode, I want to introduce you to Jim Richmond. Jim, 47, is a high school teacher and volleyball coach. He was diagnosed three years ago. Even though we are the same age and have some similar experiences, our stories are uniquely our own. I chat with Jim about symptoms, treatments, lifestyle changes, and everyday efforts to keep the disease from taking hold. After our conversation, Jim emailed to say he thought in our discussion he came across as more negative than his typical positive self. To me his story is authentic, honest and like most of us with Parkinson’s an ever adjusting mix of hope, fear, frustration and Levodopa.     If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Jim Redmond. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

In this episode, you will meet my 9-year old son Henry, hear his infectious laugh and find out the one burning question he has about Parkinson’s. I think Henry might just want a normal Dad, not one with Parkinson's , my co-host Niki Reitmayer and my wife Rebecca try to convince me otherwise. On Saturdays,  Henry and I go on adventures. We hang out, run errands, laugh, talk, and just spend time together. Father-son time means even more for me since my Parkinson’s diagnosis. I don’t always have the energy or ability to do the things we used to do and that will only get worse over time, so when we get the chance to connect, I relish it. Parenting is hard regardless if you have Parkinson’s or not. Parky can make things harder, however, it also allows me to demonstrate how I deal with adversity, teaches Henry empathy, the importance of philanthropy, and the value of quality time over quantity time. You will also hear from fellow father with PD Jonny Acheson about how he talks to his kids about Parkinson’s and how PD has changed how he approaches parenting. Singer Songwriter Emily Chambers was 12-years old when her dad was diagnosed and TeaParky.com creator Michael Chueng was 11. They both talk about what it was like to grow up with a Dad who has Parkinson’s and offer advice to my son Henry. Wondering how to talk to kids about Parkinson's? Check this link out https://www.parkinson.ca/wp-content/uploads/Talking-to-Children.pdf  Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Dan Gifford, Tracy Cherry, Jonny Acheson, and… Emily Chambers. You can check out her music at www.emilychambers.caand follow her for future alerts about “Shake, Shake, Shake.” You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/emilychambersmusic Twitter: https://twitter.com/em_chambers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilychambersmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/em_chambers/ Michael Chueng. Check out his site www.teaparky.comand follow him. Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/teaparkydotcom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeaParky/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teaparkydotcom/ And special thanks to my son Henry and to my wife Rebecca Gifford. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the home One creature was stirring, it was Dad on his phone. Alone in the living room at half past three, Parkinson’s awoke him with an urge to pee. The kid was restless and then crashed in his bed, Visions of new race cars zoomed through his head. Mom awoke to a clatter, in bed all alone, She recognized the noise as Dad’s cramping foot moan.  He tremored and shook down his arms and his legs, Anticipating breakfast and Christmas casserole eggs. Levodopa was downed and he stretched to the sky. He exercised reluctantly and let out a big sigh. While he was distracted, Santa sneaked in. Gifts were distributed by the tree with a grin. And then, after breakfast, they begin to unwrap Dad looks off in the distance, ready to nap.   Christmas is full of love and tradition, Enjoyable for all, despite Dad’s Parkinson condition.   A heartfelt Merry Christmas from the whole gang at When Life Gives You Parkinson’s. We’ll be back on January 8th will a new full episode of the podcast focusing on Parkinson’s and Fatherhood.   If you have Parkinson’s there are few things our friends at The Michael J. Fox Foundation and Parkinson Canada recommend you consider over the holidays.   Do not forget to exercise. Keeping active will help boost your spirits and keep your sleep schedule intact. Take your medication as prescribed. This is especially difficult and confusing when you cross time zones. When traveling take an updated copy of your medication list and bring medications in their bottles in your carry-on when flying. Mind your diet. A healthy Parkinson’s diet is full of fruit and vegetables. Candy and cookies are tempting treats, and family dinners make is easy to overdo it on food and wine. As with everything, moderation is the key. Drink lots of water and remember your balance issues will only increase with alcohol consumption. If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to my wife Rebecca and son Henry. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

In this episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s, I talk to people behind several Parkinson’s fundraisers, learn about their experiences with the disease and meet the researchers who benefit from the funds raised. I also let you follow me into Dr. Farrer’s lab as I donate my DNA. Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to: Emily Chambers. You can check out her music at www.emilychambers.ca and follow her for future alerts about “Shake, Shake, Shake.” You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/emilychambersmusic Twitter: https://twitter.com/em_chambers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilychambersmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/em_chambers/ Michael Chueng. Check out his site www.teaparky.com and follow him. Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/teaparkydotcom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeaParky/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teaparkydotcom/ For details on Porridge for Parkinson’s and The Pacific Parkinson’s Research Institute www.pacificparkinsons.org and follow them. Twitter: https://twitter.com/PPRI__ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PacificParkinsons/ Drs. Matthew Farrer, Silke Cresswell, and A. Jon Stoessl at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health https://www.centreforbrainhealth.ca/. Follow the Centre for Brain Health on Twitter at @DMCBrainHealth.  Dr. Farrer’s researchers Jesse Fox and Emil Gustavason. And special thanks as always to my wife Rebecca Gifford. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. The appendix. Until November 1, 2018, I didn’t know it served a purpose in the human body.  Global Newsand other news outlets around the world reported on an exciting research discoverythat people who had their appendix removed early in life had a lower risk of getting Parkinson’s later in life. After some research of my own I discovered the appendix actually helps the immune system detect and eliminate harmful microorganisms, while regulating gut bacteria. What’s the connection to Parkinson’s? Well, it turns out a healthy appendix contains alpha-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein is the key protein that builds up in the brains of people with Parkinson’s. The news about the appendix and Parkinson’s further confirms much discussed theories that there is a direct connection between gut health and brain health. One of the researchers focused on better understanding the importance of gut health and our microbiome as it relates to Parkinson’s disease is Dr. Silke Cresswell. She is an assistant professor in the division of Neurology at UBC. In this Extra Dosage episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s I sat down with her at the Djavad Mowfaghian Centre for Brain Health at UBC for the Pacific Parkinson’s Research Centre. We discuss microbiome, the appendix, diets, constipation and what she’s uncovered in her research. If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Dr. Silke Cresswell and the Djavad Mowfaghian Centre for Brain Health at UBChttps://www.centreforbrainhealth.ca/. Follow the Centre for Brain Health on Twitter at @DMCBrainHealth.  For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

I have never been very athletic. I have never been excited by thinking about or participating in exercise. The idea of a daily workout, gym memberships, exercise classes or scheduled physical activity of any kind has always been something other people do.  In August 2017, my neurologist Dr. Jonathon Squires at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Healthat UBC gave me a prescription for levodopa-carbidopa and a serious recommendation to exercise. Dr. Squires told me, “The only thing we know so far that slows the progression of Parkinson’s disease is physical activity. It does help control the symptoms and it does help slow the progression as far as we know. So it’s very important.” Never one to accept exercise as the answer suggested the medication might be enough. Dr. Squires rebutted, “In some ways, I feel like all the medications that we use are really just to enable people to exercise.” That’s when I realized this exercise thing is real, but I wanted to know why. I sought out Dr. A Jon Stoessl. He’s the head of Neurology at UBC, co-director of the Centre for Brain Health and one of the neurologists that has been researching the benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease. I asked if there was anything else aside from exercise I could explore. Anything. Anything? Dr. Stoessl didn’t hesitate or cushion the blow. The answer was no. He explained, “In fact, we don’t have any medical treatments that have been shown to have an impact on disease progression. So, we can treat the symptoms, but we don’t end up treating the underlying disease. Exercise may actually be the way to do that.” Research results suggest an exercise routine that consists of a combination aerobic and resistance training, four days a week, for a half-hour each day. Dr. Stoessl told me if I can still carry on a conversation while I’m working out, I’m not working out hard enough. He also offered this advice, “Do what you hate the least, because it’s no good someone prescribing you a half-hour on the treadmill every day, if you will never get on a treadmill.” So what exercise do I hate the least? In this episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s I explore a variety of exercises in search of one or some that I can commit to. I lace up boxing gloves for a Rock Steady Boxing class in at Impact Parkinson’s in New Westminster. Trainer Robyn Murrell takes people with Parkinson’s through circuit training, “You’ve got your foot work, hand-eye coordination, balance, cognitive, and speed. They can all relate somehow to all the different symptoms of Parkinson’s.” She notes the results are beyond the physical improvements, “It gives them a lot more confidence. I think that’s the biggest thing that I see.”  Through my search for an exercise right for me, I visit Rain City Fitness to try Cross Fit with Hilary Vanderliek. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s when she was 24, “I love Cross Fit because it’s given me the opportunity to realize my potential.” I also begin find physical activity and a way to retrain my brain how to walk again through Parkinson’s specific Physiotherapy. Naomi Casiro, BSc(Kin), MPT, Certified PWR! Is the founder of NeuroFit BC, “With Parkinson’s there something we call motor weakness. You know, your muscles are there and they’re ready to function, but the signals aren’t getting through.  They’re there, they just aren’t being utilized. They really want to be woken up. Right?” Casiro says waking up those motor patterns through Physiotherapy often leads to people’s functions drastically improving.   All of these experiences from the boxing ring to the Neurologist’s office have been overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. They’re all realistic and want to help me and others with Parkinson’s live our best life. Now it’s up to me to commit to being physically active, for the rest of my life, for the best chance to keep Parkinson’s from progressing faster than it wants to.  Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to: My fellow partners in Parkinson’s: Sugar Jay Siddell and Hilary Vanderliek. Check out Hilary’s mental health initiative “The Thought Project.” Robyn Murrell and Impact Parkinson’s in New Westminster, British Columbia. Follow them on Facebookand Twitter @ImpactParkinson. Rain City Fitnesson Instagram @raincityathlsand Cross Fit trainer Liz Carrier.  Naomi Casiro and NeuroFit BC. On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/NeuroFitBC/and YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5kLaXx3PMslzSfxVcieM2A Drs. Jonathon Squire and A. Jon Stoessl at the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health https://www.centreforbrainhealth.ca/. Follow the Centre for Brain Health on Twitter at @DMCBrainHealth.  And my wife Rebecca Gifford For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. It’s been nearly six years since our family lost our beloved beagle Pepperjack. Rebecca and Henry have been pining for a dog for years. Unfortunately, we tend to rent homes that have strict no pet policies. To our surprise and delight, our current landlord recently had a change of heart and suddenly was amenable to a small dog. The excitement in the Gifford house was palpable. For once, the trembling and shaking was coming from them and not me. With the green light to get a pup, the hunt was on. Rebecca was the General of “Operation Puppy Procurement.” Phones calls were made, emails written, DMs and texts were sent into the ether. Within 48 hours we went from dog less to dog obsessed. We traveled 45 minutes to a chicken farm where we fell in love with a small, adorable, 8 week old puppy. She was a Cavalier, Pug, French Bulldog, and Boston Terrier mix. By the time we arrived home, we had named her Luna Love Gifford (an homage to a favourite Harry Potter character), spent hundreds of dollars at the pet store, and our cheeks were sore from smiling so much.   Puppies are tough. We knew that. We were ready for it. We warned our 9-year old son. We’d done this before and knew it was hard work. But… I didn’t have Parkinson’s when we adopted Pepperjack. The disease challenges my walking and balance, increases anxiety, makes it difficult to sleep, and symptoms only intensify with stress. A five pound puppy with boundless energy, racing around my feet, needing to go outside throughout the night also challenges walking and balance, increases anxiety, makes it difficult to sleep and frankly, stressed me out.  After two weeks, Rebecca and I looked at each other one evening and we both knew we had rushed into puppy parenthood without proper consideration of the other new member of our family: Parkinson’s. Through tears of sadness and waves of embarrassment, we quickly found Luna a new forever home. It was a wake-up call that Parkinson’s plays a part in every decision we make. And will for the rest of our lives. In this Extra Dosage episode, Niki Reitmayer invites Rebecca and I into the studio to talk about our puppy predicament and the lessons we learned If you have a comment or question about the podcast, you can email us: parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to my wife Rebecca Gifford and to Luna Love Gifford wherever you are. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

It’s hard to admit it when you need help. It’s even harder to make the phone call, ask questions, commit to showing up, walk into a room full of strangers and share things that still remain secret to the closest people in your life. I’d never been in a support group before I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I didn’t know what to expect. I wondered how my Parkinson’s would measure up and if I was too young, too healthy, or too whatever to be accepted by those who bravely showed up for these meetings long before I did. Maybe I could tough it out. Maybe I could deal with this on my own. Maybe I was being ridiculous. 10 million of us have Parkinson’s. We’re all dealing with this interesting, unpredictable, degenerative, life altering, sucky disease. Those of us with PD, know the struggles, the questions, the ups and downs and each us of deserve support. Turns out great things happen when five or ten of us cram into a conference room each month. I’ve met new friends: John, Linda, Lee, AJ, Richard and Tony. Some are newly diagnosed, others have been living with PD for many years. Each gathering we laugh, share stories, ask questions of each other, offer unsolicited advice, and nod knowingly as one-by-one we discuss medication, symptoms, and struggles. We don’t always agree on the best way to approach the disease. Some have found peace with it and others would like to tear it to pieces. Some befriend it, others bemoan it. Some accept it, others reject it. Some are grateful for the gifts it’s given them, some shower it with profanity. Some offer it a name like Parky, while others can barely utter the “P” word to begin with. It’s okay. People in your support group meet you wherever you are. You might be depressed, inspired, angry, confused, exhausted, or content. It doesn’t matter. I… they… we will support you and you deserve the support. In this episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s, I take you inside my support group to demystify the experience and give you a first-hand perspective of what it’s like. Co-host Niki Reitmayer talks to Kelly Williams, a clinical resource nurse at the Movement Disorder Clinicin Winnipeg, about support options for people who live in rural areas many hours from traditional support services. For the first time since my diagnosis, my wife Rebecca discloses she is now ready to explore support group options for care partners.   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Caroline Wiggins at the Parkinson Society of BC, Kelly Williams at the Movement Disorder Clinicin Winnipeg, my support group Lee, Richard, John, AJ, Linda, and Tony, and my wife Rebecca Gifford.   For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. I took piano lessons in college. I really enjoy stumbling upon a piano, sitting down and letting my fingers find the music. I’m not great and I don’t have regular access to a piano. So, last winter when I sat down at a piano for the first time in a while, I was surprised and disappointed to discover Parkinson’s had stolen what little piano talent I had and made it into a musical mush. My brain doesn’t communicate as fast to the right side of my body as it does to the left, so while my left hand danced across the keys, my right hand tripped and stuttered like a baby fawn learning to walk.   I can only imagine the frustration and exasperation I endured would be magnified exponentially if I was a professional musician. And that’s the premise for The New Music, a new Irish feature filmabout a classical pianist with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD), a rare form of Parkinson's disease affecting those under sixty. The New Music follows the struggles of Adrian, a gifted classical musician, who discovers he has YOPD. Despite this debilitating condition, Adrian (played by Dublin actor Cilléin Mc Evoy) joins a punk band as a keyboard player and rediscovers his life through music and friendship. Writer and Director Chiara Viale has been working closely with Young Parkinson's Irelandto make sure the film accurately portrays the Parkinson’s experience. Viale and lead actor Mc Evoy join Niki Reitmayer and I on this episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s to discuss the movie, Parkinson’s and how you can help them finish the film.  If you are a musician with Parkinson’s and want to share your story with us, please email parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer FollowThe New Music Film Twitter:@thenewmusicfilm Facebook:Facebook.com/TheNewMusicFeature Instagram:@thenewmusicfeature YouTube:The New MusicFilm Donate to The New MusicFilm GoFundMe page Thanks to writer and director Chiara Viale and lead actor of the film Cilléin McEvoy. Thank you to the Dutch punk-rock trio Antillectualfor use of their song “So Much More.” For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

Since my diagnosis, I’ve experienced panic attacks, anxious days of feeling inadequate and stretches of melancholy and mourning my life before Parkinson’s. In this episode of the When Life Gives You Parkinson’s podcast we explore anxiety and depression as symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and how people are dealing with these and other hidden symptoms of Parkinson’s. “I was afraid the building would collapse and I wouldn’t be able to get help.” Hilary Vanderliek,our guest this week, lists anxiety as one of her “hidden” or non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. “I usually start panicking if I feel like I can’t get a hold of somebody or I need something that I can’t have. Whether it is someone helping me, or getting water or pills, or changing my outfit so I’m more comfortable, or me needing to go to the hospital because they’ll be able to help whatever issues I’m having.” Issues she describes as feeling stuck, shaking so bad she can’t walk or being so weak she can’t move to get to where she needs to go. When it comes to Parkinson’s most people are aware of the tell-tale tremors. I, and others, also have issues with our gait which makes walking more difficult. People with Parkinson’s are slow to initiate movement, have balance issues, and muscle rigidity. But, those are all motor symptoms you can see. There are a whole host of other symptoms people with Parkinson’s deal with that you may never know. Parkinson Canada details 27 of these symptoms on its website including difficulty swallowing, pain, sexual dysfunction, and insomnia. Anxiety and depression also made the list. Experts now say more than half of all people with Parkinson’s will develop anxiety or depression. Depression and anxiety in people with Parkinson’s is not solely a reaction to the diagnosis. Most often it’s due to changes in brain chemistry, circuits and neural pathways that control your mood. Long before his Parkinson’s diagnosis, the initial symptoms for Tony Dawson, 76, were more psychological than physical. “They tended to circle around a feeling of depression which I had not been used to feeling earlier in my life.” And it’s not just a case of, “Oh, I feel bad today.” Everyone gets that feeling from time to time. “(Depression) is that persistent feeling and sadness that you have,” says Kimberly Singian RN, who authored a paper in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on depression and Parkinson’s. “Feeling fatigued, even feelings of guilt and being worthless. Your sleep can be affected, your appetite and also your weight.” Symptoms of anxiety may include nervousness, worrying, feeling jittery, and may not have a direct cause, or may seem to be an over-reaction. Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Hilary Vanderliek, Tony Dawson, Jonny Acheson, Kimberly Singian RN, and my wife Rebecca Gifford. Here is a link to Hilary’s website. Here is a link to the YouTube video on the hidden symptoms of Parkinson’s disease mentioned by Jonny in the podcast For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca. I get asked a lot questions about Parkinson’s disease. Online, in person, over email and on social media I have made myself vulnerable and available. I’m happy to discuss my experience and my limited knowledge of the disease, symptoms and its treatments. I’m not an expert in Parkinson’s, but I am the world’s leading expert on MY Parkinson’s. This week, my brain power was put to the test by students at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Dr. Dianne Crisp invited my podcast co-host Niki Reitmayer and me into her classroom. She teaches a psychology course all about brain science and dedicates many hours of class to Parkinson’s disease. We recorded our question and answer session with students. They asked many questions about onset triggers, L-dopa, sleep, family, symptoms, treatments, my future, and more.   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Kwantlen Polytechnic Institute and Dr. Dianne Crisp. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline mentioned in this episode is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

One of the more common symptoms for people with Parkinson’s is trouble sleeping. Some of us can’t get to sleep, some can’t stay asleep, while others are awaken by tremors, painful dystonia cramping or realistic nightmares.  I can’t stay asleep.  My sleeping journal is more of an awakening journal. One day it reads “up at 3a,” the next “up at 1a,” followed by “up at 3a, up at 3:30a, and up at 4:20a.”  I’ve tried Melatonin, Magnesium Glycinate, light therapy, aromatherapy, silence, music, meditation, reading, more levodopa, later bedtimes, earlier bedtimes and the list goes on. Sleep is important for everyone. When you don’t get enough sleep you are less productive, less attentive, less present, less creative, less active, less everything it seems except tired. WebMD suggests it also puts you at “greater risk for depression, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and death.” I know you’re not supposed to believe everything you read on the internet, but it’s WebMD. Right? I’m also told by researchers that sleep is the time your brain needs to redistribute chemicals into all of its nooks and crannies and for your mind and body to assimilate after each day’s journey. (Both points seem especially relevant when you have a degenerative brain disease which is triggered by the lack of production of the brain chemical dopamine.) One of my doctors suggested if I don’t get regular REM sleep, I am increasing my risk of a mental meltdown. Needless to say, sleep is an issue that I must address.  My neurologist suggested Mirtazapine, an antidepressant that is also apparently a good sedative. It also causes an increased appetite and weight gain. Neither of which I need right now. I suggested an alternative. As Canada legalizes Cannabis, I asked, “What about CBD Oil?” For transparency, I’m not a pot smoker. I have before, I inhaled, and I liked it well enough. But, I never smoked weed regularly and have not recently.  My neurologist didn’t discourage me and suggested it wouldn’t hurt to try, but it is trial and error. I did some homework. In discussions with users and by reading about CBD Oil, there are a few things I learned.  Cannabis is hit and miss. Some in the Parkinson’s community swear by it and others who’ve tried it never found it to be effective. I’ve heard from several sources it’s a 50/50 proposition. There is no prescription. How much to take, when to take it and how to take it are up to you to discover and debate. It’s fairly intimidating. Some days I feel like I couldn’t make ramen without the instructions on the package. I brought this up to Barinder Rasode, the founder of the National Institute for Cannabis Health and Education. She agreed with me, “I share your frustration about no knowing how much or what type of Cannabis to take.” She had to do trial and error when figuring out her own regiment of CBD oil for her sleeping issues. Rasode is bullish on cannabis as it relates to treating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, “It reduces both the tremors and some researchers think it actually saves the neurons from further damage caused by Parkinson’s.” She admits those findings are anecdotal at this point, but is hopeful for more scientific trials in the wake of legalization.   The truth is there has been little research on Cannabis and Parkinson’s. So, not much is actually known. However, one trusted medical professional shared with me that while it is very likely CBD oil will make me drowsy, it is less likely to support and promote a regular sleep cycle.  What the heck. I’ll give it a try. Let the adventures into the world of Cannabis begin. Sweet dreams? I hope. We asked our partners at PARKINSON CANADA for their official POSITION on cannabis… “To-date, it has not been conclusively demonstrated by science based evaluation that marijuana can directly benefit people with Parkinson’s disease. There is a need for larger, controlled studies to better understand the efficacy of medical use of marijuana for Parkinson’s. If you are considering medical use of marijuana for Parkinson’s, we recommend you consult with your health care professional to carefully weigh potential risks and/or benefits for your individual situation. We will continue to monitor the topic of marijuana for medical purposes and will update our resources as new information becomes available.” Parkinson Canada offers this resource for people with Parkinson’s who have sleep issues http://www.parkinson.ca/wp-content/uploads/Parkinsons-disease-and-Sleep-issues.pdf  Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to my wife Rebecca Gifford and our son Henry. Thank you to the founder of National Institute for Cannabis Health and Education, Barinder Rasode. Follow her on twitter @BarinderRasode. For more information on NICHE Canada try: https://www.nichecanada.com/ and here is a link to the Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence research on Parkinson’s and Marijuana http://parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Treatment/Medical-Marijuana For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline mentioned in this episode is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

This is a special bonus episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s which we are calling “Extra Dosage.” Full episodes will be release every other Wednesday. In between, Niki and I will share new information, original interviews and extra material that provide more context to topics raised in the previous episodes of the podcast. We’ll also answer your questions. Feel free to write us with questions at parkinsonspod@curiouscast.ca.   Every six months I go to the neurologist. Each time, he runs me through the same battery of tests. You can see him put me through these tests in this video https://globalnews.ca/video/rd/1320906819867/?jwsource=cl. I just saw him again, did those same tests, and my symptoms appear to progressing. It’s not the news anyone wants to get. It’s not the news we expected to get. I even challenged my neurologist. I said, “Uhh, I thought this disease was slow moving. This doesn’t seem slow moving.” He agreed.  Once again, he’s increased my levodopa-carbidopa dosage. While I had his attention, I brought up the fact that I’m having a terrible time staying asleep. I’ve tried nearly everything it seems from meditation, light therapy and aroma therapy to Magnesium Glycinate and Melatonin. There are two more options on the table now. In this Extra Dosage, I discuss my options with co-host Nike Reitmayer and it results on our embarking on a journey.   After my neurology appointment, I texted my brothers Bruce and Dan and my sister Tracy to update them on the Parkinson’s. I really do not relish delivering bad news. I know they are holding out hope and praying hard for my health to improve. Hearing me explain about progressing symptoms and increases in medication every six months must be difficult to digest. We grew up in a home where humour was used to defuse tension. So, in my texts I often use self-deprecation and Parkinson’s jokes to lighten the mood. Those moments of levity are often greeted with a heavy silence. Not even a hapless emoji in response. I can almost hear them moan across the international border. So, I confront them about it. What about this disease makes it so difficult to joke and laugh like we used to when we confronted life and death issues with relatives growing up? What I learned is that my perception is not necessarily reality.   Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to my wife Rebecca Gifford and my siblings Bruce Gifford, Dan Gifford and Tracy Cherry. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline mentioned in this episode is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

I wish I didn’t have Parkinson’s. You wish I didn’t have Parkinson’s. In fact, as far as I can discern no one is really happy about it.  My Parkinson’s is inconvenient and uncomfortable for everyone involved. That uncomfortableness has led me to apologize for having it. I have moments nearly everyday when I try to make people feel better about my diagnosis and symptoms. (Frankly, I always thought it was supposed to be the other way around.) But, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. We all play roles in each other’s lives. We’re cast. I’m the baby brother, the college buddy, ‘Smokey the sports radio guy’ and more. For each person in my life, I played a particular part. The inconvenience and uncomfortableness arises from the reality that no one cast me as ‘disease guy.’ It can be really awkward and depressing to face realities of disease — for everyone.  In August 2017, Parkinson’s hijacked my storyline and recast me in your life story and mine. Now, in addition to high school theatre geek, loving husband and wine lover, I’m Larry with a degenerative brain disease. Unfortunately, I don’t think that’s a skill set I can to add to my LinkedIn profile.  Yes, I wish I didn’t have Parkinson’s. I am, however, grateful that my story continues to be written. Parkinson’s has given me an opportunity to update my character and made me realize that as people change, our narratives about them need to be rewritten too. In a rather healthy way, disease actually jumpstarts that process and forces people to see others in a new and different light.  In this episode of “When Life Gives You Parkinson’s”, my Mom, my wife Rebecca, my co-host Niki and I examine the roles we’ve accepted in each other’s lives, how we feel about those roles changing and what we can do to keep moving forward in life.  Follow Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head tohttp://www.parkinson.ca/ Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Thank you Courtney Doherty, registered clinical Counselor at Parkinson’s Society.  Thank you as always to my wife Rebecca Gifford and my mom Marty Gifford Thank you to @SickboyPodcast – check them out here http://sickboypodcast.com/ Follow them on Twitter Brian Stever                     @SteverBrian Taylor MacGillvary           @Taymacgillivary Jeremie Saunders           @JeremieSaunders 10 steps to help you cope with a Parkinson’s diagnosis https://www.parkinson.ca/wp-content/uploads/10_Steps_eng_PC.pdf

I love my wife. Rebecca and I just celebrated out 19th wedding anniversary. Last year, we were both thrown for a 20-yard loss when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. But a year later, we’re marching forward and trying to make the most of each moment of every day. Rebecca keeps me positive, motivated, grounded and focused on the present moment. She’s full of strength, love and wisdom. What I wasn’t as conscious of was how much the disease has already changed the way I am around the home. In this episode, Rebecca talks to Global News reporter Neetu Garcha about how she is dealing with the diagnosis, how it’s impacted our everyday life and how she and my son have had to adapt and adjust their expectations of what I can do.   “I am in awe of him as much as he’s thriving,” said Rebecca. “But, I also see the challenges. Maybe I see it more than anybody else. And that’s heartbreaking, at times, to watch the disappointment and the frustration when there is something new that crops up.” Warning: This interview triggered tears for me and it might for you. Rebecca shared with Neetu, “It’s deepened my love for him to see how he’s managing all of this and still finding so much to take from it, to offer to us and to offer to the community.” Parkinson’s can shake up life and relationships, but as with all adversity, it can also strengthen bonds of love and bring more meaning and purpose to each day of living. The interview Rebecca was recorded while filming a three-part series about Parkinson’s for Global News. Part One:‘I’m arriving with each step:’ B.C. man creates podcast on learning to live with Parkinson’s Part Two:Game-changing UBC research into Parkinson’s Disease Part Three:One Parkinson’s patient to another: ways to cope with the condition Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Special thanks to Rebecca Gifford and Neetu Garcha (@neetugarcha) For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline mentioned in this episode is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Dila Velazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Senior Audio Producer

On April 4, 2017 I texted my brothers and sister. It read, “Hi all... news of a sort from up north. For some time now, I've been experiencing issues on the side of my body leading to foot dragging/clomping, favouring my left hand over right for many tasks, slurred speech at times... life threatening issues have been eliminated. Today I went to the MS clinic for tests. MS is very unlikely, but it appears I have something in the Parkinson's family. I've been referred to a specialist, will be getting a brain MRI and will be taking drugs to increase dopamine which should relieve my symptoms. I would encourage you not to worry, it seems under control and we aren't exactly sure what it is yet. But I wanted to make sure you were all in the loop. Love, Larry” That text provoked many emotions from my siblings: shock, sadness, devastation, confusion, anger, and guilt. In this episode, you’ll hear the most intimate conversations I have ever had with my two brothers and sister. I talk to Bruce, Dan and Tracy about that text, my Parkinson’s, our fears, and unconditional love. I also learn what the “Larry filter” is and I answer their questions about living with Parkinson’s. When you get Parkinson’s disease it makes you reevaluate your relationships, how you live your life, your priorities, everything. These conversations are part of that process for me. What I discovered is that while it is my diagnosis, Parkinson’s is given to everybody in your life. It impacts each person in some way. Follow me, Larry Gifford  Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Follow Co-host and Producer Niki Reitmeyer Twitter: @Niki_Reitmayer Thank you to Bruce Gifford, Dan Gifford, Tracy Cherry and Rebecca Gifford for being an important part of my life and this story. For more info on our partner Parkinson Canada head to http://www.parkinson.ca/ The toll free hotline mentioned in this episode is 1-800-565-3000 Or follow them on Twitter Parkinson Canada            @ParkinsonCanada Parkinson Society BC      @ParkinsonsBC Credits Parkinson Canada – Podcast Partner Dila Valazquez – Story Producer Rob Johnston – Audio Producer and Sound Design

In this Extra Dosage episode of When Life Gives You Parkinson’s, I talk to my neurologist and pepper him with questions that I’ve never asked him before. Why is it hard to diagnose? What would he do if he was diagnosed? Is there really a gut health connection? What should I ask in my check-ups? What’s he looking for? And more. I find Dr. Jonathon Squires frank, funny, authentic, and accessible. I hope you do to. Meanwhile, Niki sits down with a Sandie Jones and Grace Ferrari at Parkinson Canada. Sandy pre-dates the Parkinson wonder drug levodopa. She shares her experience with Parkinson’s as a nurse in the early 1960’s. After hearing what it was like, I’ll likely never complain about having to take my pills so often.

My name is Larry Gifford. I am 46 and navigating life with a degenerative brain disease, which has no cure. I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in August 2017 after years of collecting what I thought were disconnected symptoms. I shuffled when I walked, I lost my sense of smell, and eventually it was tremors that scared me enough to seek help.

I'm Larry Gifford, I have Parkinson's disease. I'm one of 10 million people diagnosed by a disease people know very little about, so, I will be sharing my personal journey into what it’s like to live and work with Parkinson’s disease as a 40-something husband and father with a career.  Podcast will be released in Sept. but please subscribe now so you don't miss a single episode.