When life gives you Parkinson's: Corus Entertainment's CuriousCast partners with Parkinson Canada in new series

Vancouver BC, Canda—What happens When Life Gives You Parkinson’s? That’s the question Larry Gifford is working to answer in a new podcast venture with Corus Entertainment’s CuriousCast and Parkinson Canada. The series launches Wednesday, September 12, and shares Gifford’s journey as he comes to terms with the disease that affects millions and is understood by few.

Gifford, 46, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in August 2017 after seven months of tests. Looking for answers about his life ahead, he sought Parkinson’s-focused podcasts and found few, clinical options. Gifford announced his diagnosis publicly on World Parkinson’s Day, and found many others also seeking stories of people to whom they can relate.

“My goal is to help people with Parkinson’s realize they aren’t alone,” said Gifford, a thirty-year broadcast veteran, currently Senior Program Director at Vancouver’s 980 CKNW. “Awareness is the first step towards more fundraising for research, which is severely needed if we ever hope to find a cure. This is my way to make an impact.”

Each episode, Gifford and co-host Niki Reitmayer will examine the impact that a Parkinson’s diagnosis has on a person, a family, a friendship, a colleague, a company, and a community. Gifford shares the tears triggered by diagnosis, laughter brought on by unpredictable symptoms and nearly every emotion in between.

Parkinson Canada has signed on to the series as a content and promotional partner, providing opportunities to connect the diverse voices in the Parkinson’s community. Expert guest speakers will include scientists, doctors and other care team members.

“People with Parkinson’s rely on voices of experience to help them live well each day,” said Parkinson Canada CEO Joyce Gordon. “The answers can come from many places and we are delighted to partner with Larry Gifford on his audio journey.”

As a companion to the podcast’s launch, Global BC will air a three-part series about Gifford’s journey living and working with Parkinson’s, airing September 12 through 14 on Global News Hour at 6.

Corus Entertainment’s CuriousCast launched earlier this year and is home to internationally recognized brands with diverse audio storytelling, including The Ongoing History of New Music, and Global News’ This Is Why.

When Life Gives You Parkinson’s is hosted and produced by Larry Gifford and Niki Reitmayer. Subscribe to get every episode, available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you find your favorite podcasts. Listen now.