Deep Brain Stimulation can sound terrifying when you first hear about it — and both Jo Tosh and Kuhan Pushparatnam will be the first to admit they felt exactly that way. In this episode, Maria and Vicky are joined by two people navigating it with wisdom, warmth, and a refreshing refusal to let it define them. Jo is a Parkinson's UK advocate who had DBS three years ago after a decade with Parkinson's; Kuhan is the co-host of 2 Parkies in a Pod, just five months on from his own procedure. Together, they paint a vivid and honest picture of what DBS is really like — from the surgery itself and the moment the device is switched on, to the gradual (and sometimes unexpected) adjustments that follow.

They cover everything from how DBS differs for everyone, to managing medication changes, navigating airports with an implanted device, and adapting activities like tennis and swimming when coordination shifts post-surgery. Kuhan also shares his excitement about adaptive DBS — cutting-edge technology that reads your brain and adjusts stimulation automatically — while Jo reflects on her role helping to shape the future of DBS care through patient advisory boards.

Both Jo and Kuhan speak about gratitude with a conviction that only comes from knowing what the alternative feels like. Two people, two journeys — and a conversation that stays with you.

🔗 Full show notes: https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com/episode-2-deep-brain-stimulation/

Travel with Parkinson's might take a little more planning — but it's absolutely possible, and absolutely worth it. In this episode, Maria and Vicky are joined by Emma Bracher, an occupational therapist with brilliant insights into empowering people with Parkinson's to live life to the full. They dive into the realities of travelling with a Parkinson's diagnosis — the challenges, the anxieties, and the moments that remind you why it's all worthwhile.

From managing medication across time zones and keeping it safely in your hand luggage, to navigating airports and public transport with confidence, Emma and the team share practical, reassuring advice for every stage of the journey. They also explore coping strategies for freezing episodes, the importance of staying hydrated, why declaring your Parkinson's on travel insurance really matters, and how a simple letter from your healthcare provider can make a world of difference.

But it's not all logistics — this episode is full of warmth, humour, and personal stories that speak honestly to what it feels like to travel when your body doesn't always play ball. Whether you're dreaming of a long-haul adventure or just wondering how to manage a day trip, Maria, Vicky and Emma want you to know: don't let fear hold you back. Plan, prepare — and then go enjoy your holiday.

🔗 Full show notes: https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com/episode-1-travel/

Welcome to Shaking It Up With Parkinson’s, the empowering podcast breaking the silence and stigma around life with Parkinson’s. Join Maria Lewis, specialist physiotherapist and founder of Reach Your Peak, and Vicky Rees-Davies, aka The Fitness Mum, as they share their lived experiences with honesty and humour. Together, they explore movement, mindset, motherhood, and more, with expert advice, real stories, and inspiring guests who are shaking things up in their own way. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a long-time warrior, a healthcare professional, or a supportive loved one, this podcast is for you.

Our first episode releases on Thursday, March 5th 2026, so like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and keep an eye on our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for useful links and resources.

Shaking It Up with Parkinson’s is hosted by Maria Lewis and Vicky Rees-Davies. It is recorded and produced by Chaos Created.

Welcome to Shaking It Up With Parkinson’s, the empowering podcast breaking the silence and stigma around life with Parkinson’s. Join Maria Lewis, specialist physiotherapist and founder of Reach Your Peak, and Vicky Rees-Davies, aka The Fitness Mum, as they share their lived experiences with honesty and humour. Together, they explore movement, mindset, motherhood, and more, with expert advice, real stories, and inspiring guests who are shaking things up in their own way. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a long-time warrior, a healthcare professional, or a supportive loved one, this podcast is for you.

Our first episode releases on Thursday, March 5th 2026, so like and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and keep an eye on our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for useful links and resources.

Shaking It Up with Parkinson’s is hosted by Maria Lewis and Vicky Rees-Davies. It is recorded and produced by Chaos Created.