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

Simon's voice carries the weight of a decade battling Parkinson's disease as he shares his raw, unfiltered experience with dystonia – one of the condition's most debilitating manifestations. Despite undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery twice, Simon continues to struggle with both the physical torment of involuntary muscle contractions and the emotional burden of depression and apathy that often accompany Parkinson's.

The conversation takes a profound turn when Simon contrasts his journey with co-host Travis Robinson's more resilient approach. "Travis is the blitzkrieg of Parkinson's patients," Simon remarks with admiration, describing Travis's "cake or death" philosophy of pushing through difficulties. This striking juxtaposition highlights a crucial truth rarely discussed in chronic illness narratives: there's no single "right" way to face Parkinson's disease.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is its unflinching examination of the darker aspects of living with Parkinson's. Simon courageously admits, "I'm not winning the battle," giving voice to countless others who feel similarly overwhelmed but lack the platform to express it. The hosts thoughtfully explore how the medical community, despite their expertise, still grapples with Parkinson's complexity. As Simon notes, "Even the movement disorder specialists don't know that much... their guesses are just far more educated than ours."

The conversation ultimately builds toward a powerful message of community and connection. Whether through support groups, writing (Simon will be contributing a column called "Simon Says" to the PCLA website), or honest conversations like this one, breaking isolation proves essential. As Judy beautifully summarizes: "We're doing it collectively. If we stand together, we can make changes."

Ready to hear more unfiltered conversations about living with Parkinson's? Subscribe to our podcast and join our community at PCLA.org where you'll find resources, support groups, and others walking similar paths.

• 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

Travis and Judy discuss navigating life’s challenges, focusing on resilience and preparedness in the wake of a devastating fire. They share personal stories of loss, emotional coping strategies, and the importance of community support.
• Importance of resilience in facing trauma
• Preparations for unexpected emergencies
• Emotional toll of loss and community impact
• New partnership with Parkinson's Community Los Angeles
• Suggestions for emergency planning and triaging possessions
• Key takeaways for listeners in managing crises

• 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