Fire took everything Travis owned in just 15 minutes. With his Parkinson's disease symptoms flaring from stress, he faced the seemingly impossible task of rebuilding a life from scratch while his body fought against him. This raw, powerful episode explores the unexpected challenges that emerged when Travis had to relocate to a new house in just four days—a home that, while larger, presents accessibility nightmares with its multiple levels and problematic doorways.

Travis takes us on his recent whirlwind journey, from navigating airport security with specialized photography equipment to attending a friend's wedding in upstate New York. The conversation reveals how even routine travel becomes a logistical puzzle when managing a progressive neurological condition, yet Travis refuses to let these obstacles limit his experiences.

Hope shines through as Travis shares exciting news about a potential game-changer in his treatment plan. He's been fast-tracked for the innovative Vyalev Pump system—a subcutaneous infusion device similar to an insulin pump that provides continuous medication. This development offers a glimpse into how medical innovation continues to improve quality of life for those with Parkinson's.

The most touching moments come when Travis articulates the unique grief of losing personal possessions in the fire. "It's not mourning the stuff," he explains, "it's mourning the experience you had with that stuff." His perspective offers profound insight into the emotional dimensions of loss that extend far beyond material value.

Travis's story is a masterclass in resilience—not because he never struggles, but because he continues forward despite overwhelming circumstances. His determination to rebuild his photography archive symbolizes his broader approach to life: acknowledging loss while refusing to be defined by it. Listen now and discover how extraordinary circumstances can reveal extraordinary strength.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• Editor & Audio Engineer: (EP1-100) Spencer Yaras
• Audio Engineering Intern: Ana MacAller
• Social Media Intern: Ana MacAller

www.INDYpodcast.net

When 12-year-old Evie chose to make Parkinson's disease awareness part of her Bat Mitzvah project, she opened a window into how this condition affects not just patients, but entire families across generations. Her grandfather's diagnosis four years ago became a pivotal moment for their family, but not in the way you might expect.

What emerges in this candid conversation is a refreshing perspective on family communication during health challenges. While many families shield children from difficult medical realities, Evie's family took a different approach. They shared the diagnosis immediately, creating space for questions, conversations, and ultimately, a stronger bond between Evie and her grandfather. "I feel like I can talk to him about it more than I could when I was younger," she explains, demonstrating how transparency has allowed their relationship to deepen rather than become strained.

The wisdom Evie shares belies her young age, particularly when she describes her philosophy on chronic illness: "Diseases are sometimes like roller coasters. You sometimes will go up and be happy, but you don't know when it can go down." This insightful metaphor captures the unpredictable nature of Parkinson's while maintaining space for joy and connection. Her mother Leslie complements this perspective by highlighting how her father's proactive approach to managing his symptoms through specialized exercise, his positive outlook, and his willingness to maintain normal family activities like travel has created a template for resilience.

For families navigating similar terrain, this episode offers both practical insights and emotional reassurance. The conversation touches on finding community support, maintaining normality amid health challenges, and the power of intergenerational communication. Most importantly, it demonstrates that a diagnosis doesn't have to define a person or their relationships. As Evie simply yet powerfully states, "Parkinson's is a disease, but it also shouldn't define somebody." Listen, share, and join our community of supporters by subscribing and following our work at PCLA.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• Editor & Audio Engineer: (EP1-100) Spencer Yaras
• Audio Engineering Intern: Ana MacAller
• Social Media Intern: Ana MacAller

www.INDYpodcast.net

Robert Campuzano refuses to let Parkinson's disease define his life. Diagnosed at age 56, this former sales professional transformed what could have been devastating news into a remarkable journey of resilience and joy.

The moment of diagnosis hit like "a shot in the stomach." Robert found himself driving aimlessly, struggling to process what this would mean for his active lifestyle. But rather than surrendering to despair, he methodically evaluated what he could keep and what he might need to give up. While motorcycle riding had to go due to decreased reaction times, Robert was determined to continue playing competitive racquetball—a sport he'd enjoyed for nearly 30 years.

Today, Robert not only plays racquetball but dominates the court, beating competitors who are stunned to learn about his diagnosis. "These guys are in their 60s and late 50s, shaking my hand and saying 'watching you play, it's amazing that you're here all the time and kicking butt,'" Robert shares with quiet pride. His presence challenges common perceptions about Parkinson's, as people frequently ask him, "Are you sure you have Parkinson's? I can't see it."

His approach to living with Parkinson's combines the goal-setting mindset that served him well in sales with a keen awareness of his body's signals. "Read your body and let your body tell you what you're doing right or wrong," he advises. "If I'm too tired, I stop, I'm going to take a nap." This balanced perspective, along with finding the right doctor and joining support groups, forms the foundation of his success.

Robert's story isn't just about maintaining an extraordinary life despite extraordinary circumstances—it's about becoming stronger through the challenge. As he puts it, "You can take the low road or the high road. I'm going to find the best person I can be." His parting advice? "Just keep smiling out there. When you're smiling, people notice good things about you."

Ready to transform your own perspective on Parkinson's or any life challenge? Listen to Robert's full story and discover how adversity might reveal strengths you never knew you had.

• Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
• Editor & Audio Engineer: (EP1-100) Spencer Yaras
• Audio Engineering Intern: Ana MacAller
• Social Media Intern: Ana MacAller

www.INDYpodcast.net