We’re hitting a milestone-Episode 60- and marking it in style. 

In this special instalment of 2 Parkies in a Pod, Dave and Kuhan swap the studio for the pitch as they attend a truly unique football match. On one side: the England Men’s Parkinson’s Walking Football team. On the other: a team of MPs from the All-Party Parliamentary Group.

But this isn’t just about goals and glory.

This match shines a spotlight on something bigger- the powerful role exercise can play in living well with Parkinson’s. It’s about movement, resilience, and proving that diagnosis doesn’t mean standing still.

And where better to make that statement than right at the heart of power?

Adding to the occasion, the team also received a letter from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, praising the day and recognising the importance of raising awareness and championing the Parkinson’s community.

With boots on the ground and voices raised, this episode captures a moment where the Parkinson’s community takes its message straight to the highest table in the land-loud, proud, and impossible to ignore.

Plus we take a trip down memory lane, talk about gut health and Dave's unexpected visitor for breakfast !

⚽ Movement is medicine.

Please do subscribe, rate and review the podcast.

Symprove Gut Health

https://shop.parkinsons.org.uk/pages/partner-symprove

Padel for Parkinson's

https://www.instagram.com/Padel4Parkinsons

Billy Connolly Art

https://www.castlefineart.com/products/a-chat-at-the-gym

Alex Echo Art

https://www.castlefineart.com/search?q=alex+echo

Sex, Shopping & Gambling - Out of Control

This week on 2 Parkies in a Pod, we uncover the darker side of dopamine agonists — a group of Parkinson’s drugs that, for some people, have triggered devastating impulsive behaviours.

Sudden, overwhelming sexual urges, out-of-control gambling and compulsive shopping that’s cost families tens of thousands of pounds.

We speak to BBC Investigative Reporter Noel Titheradge, who spent a year investigating the link between these medications and impulse control disorders. His documentary 'Impulsive’ for the BBC’s Radio 4 Shadow World series exposed stories that are hard to ignore.

You’l also hear from:

• Ellie, who lost more than £50k to online gambling
• Steve, who became addicted to adult webcam sites and spent £40k
• A solicitor who stole £600k from clients to fund a secret double life

How common are these side effects?

Are patients warned clearly enough?

And should drug companies be doing more?

If you or someone you love has been affected, help is available.

📞 Parkinson’s UK free confidential helpline: 0808 800 0303

📧 [email protected]

Parkinson’s UK Impulsive Control Disorders

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/about-us/our-views/impulsive-compulsive-behaviour

BBC Impulsive Series

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001zlz0

Contact Noel: [email protected]

Yellow Card Reporting Side Effects

https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/

Ellie’s Blog 

https://pdmamablog.wordpress.com/

‘Why am I so tired?’ features occupational therapist Emma Bracher

Research shows, fatigue is the most burdensome symptoms for people with Parkinson’s, yet it’s still one of the least talked about and least understood.

So what is Parkinson’s fatigue? What causes it? And is there anything we can do to live with it — or even prevent it?

This week on 2 Parkies, we’re joined by Emma Bracher, Specialist Occupational Therapist and founder of Bigger & Better, a fitness and wellbeing programme designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

Emma shares her expert insight into:

• What Parkinson’s fatigue really is (and why it’s more than “just being tired”)
• Why fatigue can be so debilitating
• Practical strategies to manage energy levels day-to-day
• How occupational therapy helps people with Parkinson’s improve their ability to carry out everyday tasks and stay independent

We also get to know Emma’s personal journey — having a dad who has Parkinson’s, to how a six-year adventure in Australia inspired her to become a healthcare professional. And because it wouldn’t be 2 Parkies without a bit of fun, we also discover how Emma’s husband has turned their garage into an unexpected shrine to darts 🎯
An honest, informative, and uplifting conversation about one of Parkinson’s toughest symptoms — with plenty of practical takeaways along the way.

Links:

How can Occupational Therapy help me

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/magazine/spotlight/how-can-occupational-therapy-help-me-if-i-have-parkinsons

Bigger and better 

https://www.biggerandbetterforparkinsons.co.uk/

2 Parkies Bobble hats - use the code WarmFeb (up to 28/2) at checkout to receive 10% off any clothing

https://shop.parkinsons.org.uk/collections/parkinsons-uk-merchandise-1/2-parkies-in-a-pod

The Tremor-Loes Choir

https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_n6FHxcvIQZTpv7mA4AObHQlpXg2Si5Exc

Larry 100 Marathons

https://secure2.convio.net/dpf/site/Donation2?mfc_pref=T&2720.donation=form1&df_id=2720

Skateboarding Parkie Phillip Brown 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCulUIOyLhCDo8YnwRqSL77Q

The Shaking It Up Parkinson’s Podcast

https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com/launch-trailer/

Parkinson’s Medication Explained with Professor Jane Alty from the University of Tasmania.

Parkinson’s meds can feel overwhelming. If you don’t know your Entacapone from your elbow, this is the Podcast for you.

The professor cuts through the confusion — busting myths and jargon explaining what each medication actually does, and why treatment should always be personal. From first prescription to advanced therapies, this is a must-listen for anyone navigating Parkinson’s.

Key Topics:

• When is the right time to start Parkinson's medication? (and why waiting isn’t always better)
• Understanding the role of Levodopa and its brand vs. generic versions
• Why dosing isn’t one size fits all
• Managing motor fluctuations and dyskinesia with medication adjustments
• The function and timing of dopamine agonists and side effect considerations ..like risk of gambling
• Managing OFF time, fluctuations, and dyskinesia
• Dopamine agonists: benefits, risks, and side effects
• Pumps, DBS, and other device-assisted therapies
• Supplements like Macuna and CBD: hype vs evidence
• Why honest doctor–patient conversations change outcomes
• Resources including the Parkinson's MOOC for patients and carers

Parkinson’s UK Medication

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information/drugs

Parkinson’s MOOC (massive open online course)

https://mooc.utas.edu.au/course/20392

Parkinson’s Weekly Prof Bas Bloem (talking about Amandatine)

https://oruen.com/category/podcasts/parkinson-weekly

Megan’s Yogathon for Parkinson’s UK

https://www.justgiving.com/page/megan-jones-1764255759495?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

Anders M. Leines ‘This is Parkinson’s’

https://www.detteerparkinson.no/en/media

Emma Lawton ‘The Bendy Pencil’

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/thebendypencil

Miracle grandfather battling Parkinson's, 74, survives 60m mountain fall

https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2161180/grandfather-battling-parkinsons-survives-60/amp

Season's Greetings from 2 Parkies in a Pod ! 
Dave and Kuhan get in the festive spirit as they open the postbag and share some truly inspiring stories from the community ..including the challenges of running a nuclear power plant with Parkinson's, more remarkable DNA stories and we hear from friends.. old and new. 

Plus 2 Parkies in a Pod receives its own community award !
As always - honest conversations, real lives, and a bit of festive cheer along the way…
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Please rate, review and subscribe!

2parkiesinapod.com

[email protected]

Many people living with Parkinson’s struggle to talk about their diagnosis. Fear, stigma, and uncertainty can keep people silent for years. Even Michael J. Fox kept his Parkinson’s diagnosis private for almost a decade.

This week on 2 Parkies in a Pod, we meet Scott and Paul, who share powerful, deeply personal coming out stories — not just about Parkinson’s, but about identity, isolation, and finding the courage to be seen.

Paul reflects on how closely his Parkinson’s journey mirrored his experience of coming out as gay:

“I guess I dealt with Parkinson’s in the same way I dealt with realising I was gay… by not talking to anyone about it for many years"

Scott speaks honestly about living with Parkinson’s while single, gay, and without family support:

“Being single, gay, with no family support, I did feel very isolated — and there weren’t many people I could see in the community that I had anything in common with.”

In one of the episode’s most raw moments, Scott also opens up about experiencing suicidal thoughts and explains how the helplessness he felt during tests for deep brain stimulation treatment resurfaced memories of past sexual abuse. His honesty shines a light on the complex mental health challenges faced by many people with Parkinson’s — challenges that often remain unspoken.

This is a story about vulnerability, survival, and connection. A story of adversity, community and ultimately ...gratitude.

Parkinson’s and The Invisible Man (Scott’s YouTube channel)

https://www.youtube.com/@Parkinsonsandtheinvisibleman

Parkinson’s UK Mental Health 

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information/symptoms/behavioural/mental-health

Podcast Club

https://localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/activity/young-onset-parkinsons-online-group

LGBTQIA+ Network

https://localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/activity/lgbtqia-network-meeting-online

DBS Network

https://forms.gle/ApDHqGaDF38n6wYa7

Join our yoga group

https://dawnwilliamsyoga.co.uk

1 in 3 living alone research insights

https://denpruexeter.nihr.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DeNPRU-Exeter_living-alone-with-a-progressive-neurological-condition_policy-brief.pdf

Par-Con 2025 mental health video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-PwOYRSe4Q&list=PL1ixQpbHed3Y9_jS-WuZePcFa7N_O7aNi&index=7&pp=iAQB0gcJCSkKAYcqIYzv

Hear Me charity

https://www.parkinsons.me/hearme

Nutrition PD

http://prksn.uk/47RAlmu

Please rate, review and subscribe to the podcast 

Contact us at:

[email protected]

In this episode, we meet Lucy (not her real name), who shares her extraordinary Parkinson’s journey.

Lucy discovered she has a genetic form of Parkinson’s known as LRRK2. What started as a simple Ancestry DNA test to explore her family roots soon led to life-changing revelations — uncovering far more than she ever expected.

Before releasing this episode, we sought advice from Lucy’s counsellor, and we’ve taken every step to protect the privacy of everyone involved in this remarkable story.

If you’ve been affected by the topics discussed, or want to learn more about genetic Parkinson’s, you can contact the Parkinson’s UK Helpline for confidential advice and support:

📞 0808 800 0303

📧 [email protected]

Donor Conceived Support

https://donorconceiveduk.org.uk (peer led support)

https://www.uhliverpool.nhs.uk/services/service-finder/donor-conceived-register (national register)

EJS ACT PD Get Involved 

https://www.ejsactpd.com/

Watch 2 Parkies at Par-Con

https://youtu.be/H7IFQfcp2os

Neuro Heroes

https://www.neuroheroes.co.uk/

Parkinson’s Europe Work Survey

https://parkinsonseurope.org/parkinsonslife/careers-cut-short-financial-loss-and-fear-of-stigma-new-survey-working-with-parkinsons/

Parkinson’s UK Nurse appeal

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/donate/donate-great-care

Neuralink

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2025/oct/first-uk-patient-uses-thought-control-computer-hours-after-neuralink-implant

[email protected]

10 Tips for a Better Day

You can watch this episode at:

https://youtu.be/H7IFQfcp2os

In this special live episode from Parkinson’s UK’s Par-Con event in Birmingham, Kuhan and Dave are joined by a buzzing audience of more than 1000 people in person and online and the incredible Laura Douglas, neuro physiotherapist and founder of Neuro Heroes.Laura shares her expert advice from getting out of bed, stretches for dystonia and tips for getting dressed.Packed with practical tips, uplifting moments, and plenty of fun, this episode will help you start and end each day feeling stronger, steadier, and more confident — no matter what.

Neuro Heroes Tips

Plus a couple of special announcements.

Subscribe to 2 Parkies in a Pod

A new study published today reveals a worrying trend: there are now 166,000 people in the UK living with Parkinson’s but a further 21,000 are estimated to be undiagnosed.. and unsupported.

The Parkinson's UK study, the largest of it's kind, also reveals more than a third (36%) were of working age when diagnosed.

Separately the number of people with a more complex form of Parkinsonism (e.g. Lewy Body Dementia, MSA, PSP) has increased to 28,000.

The study also finds stark differences in rates based on ethnicity.

Even more concerning, in some parts of the country people are waiting up to five years to see a neurologist. The charity has called it a “Parkinson’s diagnosis crisis.”

With someone in the UK diagnosed every 20 minutes, we ask: why are the numbers rising, what’s driving the crisis, and what needs to change?

Join us as we dig into the data, with 3 experts from Parkinson’s UK and explore what this means for the Parkinson’s community — now and for the future.

For more information:

Parkinson's UK News Article:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/news/thousands-are-living-parkinsons-undiagnosed-and-unsupported-our-new-research-finds

Read the Parkinson's UK Research Blog:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/research/research-blog/our-research/parkinsons-uk-what-do-we-know

Parkinson's UK Statistics:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/about-us/parkinsons-statistics

Research Paper:

https://movementdisorders.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mdc3.70368

www.parkinsons.org.uk

UK Helpline 0808 800 0303

Join the Research Support Network:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/research/research-blog/our-research/parkinsons-uk-research-support-network

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/research/race-equality-research

Join the Black, Asian, Arab and Mixed Heritage Support Group:

https://localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/activity/black-asian-arab-and-mixed-heritage-support-group-meeting

Listen to Will I Die from Parkinson's:

https://www.2parkiesinapod.com/podcast/episode/1e8a6b26/will-i-die-from-parkinsons

https://ourfuturehealth.org.uk/

In this episode, we’re joined by specialist Parkinson’s nurse Becky Heslop, who recently starred in a film highlighting the vital role nurses play in supporting people living with Parkinson’s.

Becky talks us through what a Parkinson’s nurse actually does, from being a key part of your care package, to offering advice, reassurance, and hands-on treatments. We hear about some of the more practical – and sometimes challenging – aspects of her work, including giving Botox injections and helping people manage the Produodopa pump.

Please consider donating to the Nurse appeal at:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/donate/donate-great-care