At PMD Alliance, our Ambassadors are much more than volunteers. They are partners, leaders, and experts in their own right – experts in living with a movement disorder, experts in building community support where little to none existed, experts in navigating complex systems of care, and so much more! Get a taste of their wealth of knowledge and resources with these 10 book recommendations, complete with comments straight from the experts explaining how the book spoke to or informed something in their Parkinson’s or movement disorders journey.
1: Your Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross
Recommended by Lauren Simmons
What Lauren said:
When I am creative, whether drawing or taking photos, I feel better. This book explains why. The authors say that “art and science together are potent medicine, capable of radically transforming our physical health.” Some examples are:
– how dance helps minimize rigidity and helps gait and balance
– how music can reach those with dementia & memory issues
– how drawing and sculpting can help with fine motor skills
– how coloring can lower anxiety
– how drumming, humming, vibrating sounds can lower anxiety, reduce stress, and reduce fatigue
This book is a must read for anyone working with humans.
2: Oh Crap! It’s Parkinson’s by Dr. Sara Whittingham
Recommended by both Andy Morales and Karen Malkin
What Andy said:
It was very easy to read. It reminded me it’s up to me to fight back against Parkinson’s, but I’m not alone.
What Karen said:
This book is perfect for newly diagnosed, PwP wanting to reset or looking for confirmation they are on the right track. Sara speaks from a personal and medical lens. She addresses the physical, emotional, and social challenges of dealing with pd on a daily basis through weaving other PwP stories. The audiobook is even more impactful according to some.
3: This Journey Together: A Compassionate Guide to Living with Parkinson’s for You and Those Who Love You by Nina Sandell
Recommended by Kristin Matteson
What Kristin said:
It’s an easy read, with informal conversation and layman terms. Each chapter stands alone, which lowers the potential “overwhelm”. Last year we had a book club for care partners, and this was the book. Several PD Community members have read and recommend this book to assist you in navigating the PD journey – whether you are newly diagnosed or have been on this road for years. This book will benefit PWP, CP, and family and friends.
4: Gone: A Memoir of Love, Body and Taking Back My Life by Linda K Olson
Recommended by Lauren Simmons
What Lauren said:
This is a true story of survival. Linda Olson survived a horrific train accident that took both her legs and one of her arms and she continued on to have a fulfilling medical career, become a mom a couple of times over, accomplish more than many able bodies humans, and still keep a sense of humor. All this and then a Parkinson’s diagnosis gets dumped on top.
Linda Olson is an inspiration.On my dark days when I don’t want to go to the gym, I think of Linda doing one armed push ups and butt racing her kids. If she can do that, I can get out the door and go to the gym.
5: The Body – A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson
Recommended by Gregoy B Ritscher
What Gregory said:
Very easy read and understanding about the human body and how it works! To fight PD properly, you must know how the body works.
6: Living Parkinson’s by Steve Yellen
Anonymous Ambassador recommendation
What the recommender shared:
Very practical and easily accessible with techniques to get started right now being more active and engaged in body and mind. Presents a framework anyone with Parkinson’s can implement to track their wellness and daily activities.
7: Forty Thousand to One by Ben Petrick
Recommended by Chris Kustanbauter
What Chris said:
It is a story of resilience and overcoming obstacles while living with Parkinson’s. Ben’s father was living with Parkinson’s, and he developed Parkinson’s while playing Major League Baseball when he was in his 20’s. He shares his story of playing in front of 40,000 fans to having to retire and care for his young daughter. He shares the trials and tribulations he went through and how he came out the other side and was able to help others like himself living with Parkinson’s.
This book helps people realize that you can still live a fulfilling life after a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Ben’s story shows how you can share your challenges with others to help you live the life you want with Parkinson’s.
8: Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Recommended by Gregory B Ritscher
What Gregory said:
World famous psychologist helps answer the question “WHY ME” for handling atomic events in our lives. Many people with PD want to know “Why Me”? What did I do to deserve this (idiopathic PD)?
9: One Word That Will Change Your Life by Jon Gordon
Recommended by Lori DePorter
What Lori said:
It’s an easy read about simplifying your life. We all need that, but especially people with Parkinson’s!
10: Miles To Go Before I Sleep by Melissa Livingston
Recommended by Melissa Livingston
What Melissa said:
This book of short essays balances difficult moments with optimism. Written by a person with Young Onset Parkinson’s, it is an insider’s look into the hearts and minds of the Parkinson’s community.