Brian is an avid mountain biker and author, with a health conscience approach to living with PD.
When Brian’s painful foot cramps (dyskinesias) first appeared, he had no idea how serious this one symptom was — or the toll it would eventually take on his life. Over time, one thing became abundantly clear: he was in the fight of his life.
For much of his life, finding “balance” and a healthy way to cope with his medical challenges proved elusive. Eventually, however, Brian did find that balance. Accepting himself and facing Parkinson’s disease head-on helped him feel less like a victim and more empowered to handle the challenges before him. Learning to be open, honest, and accepting of himself granted Brian a sense of control and peace. He discovered that when we stop hiding from ourselves, our most troubling symptoms often become less overwhelming.
Not Afraid to Fall is an inspirational nonfiction account that chronicles Brian’s journey with Parkinson’s disease — from its early onset to the present day. The mental, emotional, and physical challenges of living with Parkinson’s have helped shape the person he has become and define the very fabric of who he is — something he is deeply proud of.
From the outside looking in, some might assume Parkinson’s disease has ruined Brian’s life. Quite the contrary. While the disease has certainly imposed limits and challenges, it has also liberated him in unexpected ways. The lessons Parkinson’s has taught him are gifts — insights he hopes to share with others living with the disease, their caregivers, and anyone struggling with unresolved trauma or hardship.
Whether recounting his skiing adventures in Europe or his attempts to summit Mount Washington on his bicycle, Not Afraid to Fall offers readers both inspiration and hope. The book explores Brian’s family medical history and includes a first-hand account of his deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. It also provides valuable medical insight, drawn from over 20 years of prescribed medication use — and the remarkable experience of living medication-free since August 2008, following his surgery in 2007.
Very few people with Parkinson’s have the opportunity to discontinue medication entirely once starting drug therapy. Brian’s rare experience of living both with and without medication gives him a unique perspective on treatment, exercise, diet, sleep, and the holistic balance needed to live well with Parkinson’s.
It’s easy to feel powerless when facing a chronic illness. Through his story, Brian hopes to help readers reclaim their sense of strength and restore balance in their lives. Those seeking an uplifting, empowering, and deeply human story will find it within the pages of Not Afraid to Fall.
Find balance living with Parkinson's disease.
