• When Life Gives You Parkinson's

  • By: Curiouscast
  • Podcast
When Life Gives You Parkinson's By cover art

When Life Gives You Parkinson's

By: Curiouscast
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  • Summary

  • Larry Gifford has Parkinson’s disease, and he wants to talk about it. When Life Gives You Parkinson’s chronicles Larry’s journey following diagnosis at age 45, but he knows he’s only part of the story. The podcast gives voice to the fascinating people that make up the Parkinson’s community and beyond — his family, his fellow people with Parkinson’s, care partners, advocates, researchers and healthcare providers. Through these interviews, the podcast informs and inspires others to share their own stories revealing the challenges and growth offered by the Parkinson’s journey. Larry is a seasoned broadcaster and the podcast is co-hosted by then-radio personality Niki Reitmayer until 2020 when Larry’s wife Rebecca takes on the role. Special thank you to our partners. Presenting partner is Parkinson Canada, content and promotional partner Spotlight YOPD, and The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research Parkinson’s IQ + You, PD Avengers, World Parkinson Congress #WPC2023 in Barcelona, Spain.
    2022 Corus Radio
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Episodes
  • From Awareness to Action: The Final Episode

    From Awareness to Action: The Final Episode
    Mar 20 2024
    In this bittersweet finale of "When Life Gives You Parkinson's," we reflect on the incredible journey we've shared over 124 episodes. From the very first episode to this one, we've laughed, cried, and learned together. Countless guests have graced our show, sharing their stories, insights, and expertise, making each episode a treasure trove of knowledge and connection. Hosts Larry and Rebecca take a moment to express gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the success of the podcast. Whether you've been a guest, a listener, or a supporter, your presence has made a difference. Through the highs and lows, the triumphs and challenges, we've built a community bound by a shared mission: to raise awareness, offer support, and ultimately find a cure for Parkinson's disease. As we bid farewell to "When Life Gives You Parkinson's," we carry with us the memories, the laughter, and the friendships forged along the way. Thank you, everyone, for being part of this incredible journey. Though this may be the final episode, the impact of our collective efforts will continue to resonate far beyond the confines of this podcast. From all of us at "When Life Gives You Parkinson's," thank you, and be well. EMAIL US: Larry@PDAvengers.com JOIN PD AVENGERS: www.pdavengers.com Thanks to Rebecca Gifford, Niki Reitmayer, Chris Duncombe, Dila Velazquez, Rob Johnson, Greg Schott, and Corus Entertain. Special thanks to Parkinson Canada who has been there supporting the podcast since the beginning.
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    11 mins
  • Dialing in DBS and Sorting Through the Data with Rune Labs CEO Brian Pepin

    Dialing in DBS and Sorting Through the Data with Rune Labs CEO Brian Pepin
    Jan 23 2024
    In the latest episode of "When Life Gives You Parkinson’s," Larry Gifford shares insights into his Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) journey alongside his partner, Rebecca Gifford. Larry expresses excitement about the positive impact of DBS on his symptoms, noting improvements in walking, voice, and overall confidence. He recommends Dr. Jon Stamford’s new DBS DIARY for a comprehensive view of the DBS dilemma. The episode features an interview with Brian Pepin, CEO of Rune Labs, the technological interface for Medtronic's DBS system. For those considering DBS, Larry invites questions through the show notes or via email. The podcast, a production of Curiouscast, is sponsored by PD Avengers, urging listeners to participate in SparktheNight.org and share the podcast for Parkinson’s awareness. The episode concludes with a reminder to stay positive, exercise, and keep listening until the next installment.
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    33 mins
  • DBS: I Helped Surgeons Operate on my Brain

    DBS: I Helped Surgeons Operate on my Brain
    Nov 22 2023
    In this episode of "When Life Gives You Parkinson’s," Larry and Rebecca dive into Larry's recent Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery. It's the culmination of their DBS series, showcasing moments before and after the procedure. (Episode six of our 2023 DBS series) Larry shares his experiences, from the anticipation of the surgery to post-surgery reflections. He describes the fears he had about the head frame and the surgical process itself, emphasizing the involvement of Nurse Nancy and Dr. Honey. The detailed account covers the electrode installation, the testing of potential targets for relief, and the moments of consciousness during the surgery. Post-surgery, Larry discusses the "Honeymoon" period, a phase of initial relief and remarkable changes. He talks about the reduction in medication intake, improved bodily functions, and sensory experiences like regaining his sense of smell. Despite these positive changes, he notes signs of needing to gradually reintroduce medication as he experiences disorientation and fatigue. Larry and Rebecca conclude with observations of minor personality changes and a heartfelt conversation about what comes next. It's a personal, insightful episode that offers a firsthand account of the realities and changes that come with DBS surgery for Parkinson's Disease.   MAIL Larry and Rebecca: ParkinsonsPod@curiouscast.ca Have a topic or questions that you would like Larry & Rebecca to address on a future episode? We would love you to click here and leave a message  https://www.speakpipe.com/WhenLifeGivesYouParkinsons Follow us, Larry & Rebecca Gifford  Facebook: Facebook.com/ParkinsonsPod Instagram: @parkinsonspod Twitter: @ParkinsonsPod Thanks to Curiouscast Our Presenting Partner is Parkinson Canada. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s? You are not alone. Contact presenting partner Parkinson Canada http://www.parkinson.ca/, call the toll free hotline 1-800-565-3000 or on Twitter you can message @ParkinsonCanada. Additional thanks to...  PD Avengers – We are building a global alliance to end Parkinson’s. Join us. 
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    39 mins
Biographies & Memoirs Physical Illness & Disease Psychology Hygiene & Healthy Living Social Sciences
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