Parkinson's EmPower Talks

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, and these symptoms are rarely talked about openly.

The good news is there are some therapies, exercises, and strategies that can help.

Erica’s EmPowering message is, “The pelvic floor is a muscle; we can do something about it. We can help the pelvic floor muscle, training it in a different way to help you to really maximize your quality of life. You are not alone; it’s common, we can help it, and track patterns. So, when you go to your clinician, you can have at least some idea of some of the patterns that you’ve been experiencing, and then we can start from there and take steps to help you get this all taken care of.”

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 information you can—ask your friends, go online, reach out to Wisconsin Parkinson Association, and get all of those resources in your back pocket. Then have a conversation with your family: here are my thoughts in the moment; here’s what I want to do. It’s a hard conversation to have, but then you are less likely to be reactive and more likely to be proactive. I’m for everybody to do a little something to make an impact and make change.”

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 work.

Stephanie’s EmPowering message is, “Connect with your values and the values that pull you forward, that give you a sense of meaning and purpose and hope. I think there’s room for everybody to do a little something to make an impact and make change.”

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, and really trying to set your current and future self up for as many options as possible.”

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.”

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 help and share information and get you on the right track.”

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.”

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.”

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 ways caregivers can help their loved one who is experiencing memory changes.

Dr. Kokontis’ EmPowering message is, “Get out there and exercise every day. You’re helping yourself, you’re helping your future. Whatever it takes, do it!”

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 mobility and what we consume affects low blood pressure and share ways caregivers can help their loved one who is experiencing it.

Dr. Spangler’s EmPowering message is, “You have Parkinson’s, but don’t let Parkinson’s have you”. Yes its something you need to manage but work with your provider because there is a lot you can do on your own to self manage your disease. Every patient that I have that tends to self manage does better.

Discussion with Dr. Kathryn Gaines – In this episode with Kathryn Gaines, DO, 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 loved one who is experiencing it. Dr. Gaines closes with a hopeful discussion of current research on the topic.

Dr. Gaines’ EmPowering message is “keeping a sense of hope. Freezing of gait is probably one of the leading factors regarding Parkinson’s that affects the quality of life and having a positive attitude is going to directly improve the quality of life.” She states that “having gratitude for small wins everyday” is an essential mental framework.

Discussion with Marie Mejaki. In this episode with Marie Mejaki, BA, CCRC, we will discuss the topic of Volunteering for PD Research: 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 wondered what is involved in participating, this conversation will discuss many of those details. You’ll learn about how patients are selected, what tests involve, possible side effects and the benefits and risks of participating and so much more. It’s an informative session that will provide insights on whether participating in a research study or trial might be right for you. froedtert.com/research

Marie Mejaki’s empowering message is, if you are willing and able, get involved in research. You don’t have to have Parkinson’s to enroll in a study. It’s empowering to be proactive in your healthcare. If it’s not for your care, it can help future patients or even help eradicate a disease.