Parkinson's EmPower Talks with Dacy Reimer

In this episode of Parkinson’s EmPower Talks, our guest is Erica Vitek, MOT, OTR, BCB-PMD, PRPC with Aurora Health Care. Today, we’re talking about pelvic floor health in Parkinson's. This can be a very sensitive topic, but it needs to happen more often in Parkinson's care. Many individuals with Parkinson's experience bladder changes, constipation, urgency, nighttime bathroom trips,...

In this episode of Parkinson’s EmPower Talks, our guest is Ruth Busalacchi, Owner and President of Synergy HomeCare. “Parkinson’s doesn’t stay the same. Neither should care. Today, we’re talking about how home care adapts over time—and how families can plan proactively instead of reacting in crisis.” Ruth’s EmPowering message is, “Avoid the ‘cross your finger’ plan. Be proactive: get all the infor...

In this episode of Parkinson's EmPower Talks, our guest is Stephanie Johnson, founder of the Rick Johnson Parkinson's Disease Registry and the Parkinson's Disease Alliance of Wisconsin. She will share what led her to become an advocate for the Parkinson’s community and the importance of a statewide Parkinson’s registry. We’re grateful to have her with us to discuss this important wo...

Discussion with Lisa Dickas, SLP - In this episode with Lisa, we will discuss the topic of speech therapy. Lisa's EmPowering message is, "You can still make  important and meaningful gains despite the diagnosis. You can take some things back from Parkinson's; it is not a one way street. The hardest part is the start. You can start now with adding good habits and dumping the bad ones...

Discussion with Christian Biegel, DPT - In this episode with Dr. Biegel, we will discuss the topic of Alternative Therapies for PD. Dr. Biegel's EmPowering message is, "if you don't use it you lose it, motion is lotion, and be an active participant in your health and wellness care." To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ka_O0okdsGU To support more programs like thi...

Discussion with Bryanna Bruger, PsyD - In this episode with Bryanna, we will discuss the topic of Overcoming Apathy: Strategies for Increased Motivation & Engagement. Bryanna's EmPowering message is, "To know that there is hope, and to keep putting one foot in front of the other no matter how hard it may seem, especially in the context of apathy. There are people out here willing to...

Discussion with LeAnn Lanthrop, MSW, LCSW - In this episode with LeAnn Lanthrop, we will discuss the topic of Accessing PD Support & Resources. LeAnn's EmPowering message is, "Don't wait for a crisis to find your resources and your information...Know where to find your resources but don't wait for a crisis to happen." To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/...

Discussion with Kate Harrell, MS, RDN - In this episode with Kate Harrell, we will discuss the topic of Nutrition in Parkinson's Disease. Kate's EmPowering message is, "My biggest thing is staying positive and putting one step in front of the other and knowing that you are doing a good job and a good thing to take care of your body." To watch this episode on YouTube: https://yo...

Discussion with Dr. Lisa Kokontis - In this episode with Lisa Kokontis, MD, we will discuss the topic of Memory Changes. Dr. Kokontis explains the different types of memory problems, including that of normal aging.  Dacy and Dr. Kokontis discuss how memory disorders are diagnosed and treated as well as what can be done to improve memory function. You will learn what to report to your doctor and wa...

Discussion with Dr. Katie Spangler - In this episode with Katie Spangler, MD, we will discuss the topic of Low Blood Pressure. Not everybody experiences this symptom of Parkinson’s, but for those who do it can be very dangerous and increase their fall risk. Dr. Spangler explains why low blood pressure occurs, how it is treated, and tips for managing it at home. Dacy and Dr. Spangler discuss how mo...

Discussion with Kathryn Gaines, DO - In this episode with Dr. Gaines, we will discuss the topic of Freezing Gait. Not everybody experiences this symptom of Parkinson’s, but for those who do it can be very debilitating. Dr. Gaines explains what freezing gait is, what causes it, and how it is treated. Dacy and Dr. Gaines discuss tips to overcome freezing gait and share ways caregivers can help their...

Discussion with Marie Mejaki, BA, CCRC - In this podcast, with Marie, we will discuss the topic of volunteering for Parkinson's research and what to know and expect. This is a great opportunity to learn about and understand the various types of research such as clinical trials, observational and treatment studies. Dacy and Marie will talk about how new treatments are approved. If you’ve ever...

Discussion with Taylor Finseth, MD - In this episode with Dr. Finseth, we will discuss Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). DBS is a surgical therapy used to treat the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s as well as certain side effects caused by medications. We will cover the entire process from patient selection, various devices, and what to expect from start to finish.  According to Dr. Finseth, “we think...

Discussion with Dr. Ryan Brennan, DO - In this podcast, with Dr. Ryan Brennan, we will discuss why PD symptoms vary with each individual and therefore, why it’s important to create a unique individualized treatment plan. No two people are exactly alike, so what works for one doesn’t work for all. According to Dacy, “treatment isn’t cookie cutter”.  Dr. Brennan’s EmPowering message is, “ Live your...