Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, presents numerous daily challenges, significantly affecting an individual's quality of life. For many, traditional treatments may alleviate some symptoms but often fall short of providing comprehensive relief. In recent years, alternative therapies such as red light therapy have emerged as potential aids in managing Parkinson's.
One of our friends, David Gebhart, is a passionate advocate for Parkinson’s awareness and red light therapy who has shared his personal journey and how this innovative treatment could be a valuable addition to conventional care.
The journey to dealing with Parkinson’s disease
David’s diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease happened in May of 2017. It’s a moment that drastically altered his life, and one can only dream of attempting to understand what he and his family must have been going through at that time.
David, however, is the kind of person who is ready for all challenges, no matter how difficult they may be, and so, with the help of his wife, he started looking for the kinds of strategies and treatments that he could use to manage his symptoms that existed beyond the purview of traditional medicine and treatment.
In the beginning, the two of them were incredibly disappointed by the lack of practical and relatable information that was available to them. His initial thought was that it shouldn’t be that hard to find the resources he needed to navigate daily living with Parkinson’s for him or for anyone else
But as he continued his search, the frustration began to mount. The bulk of the resources he was able to find ended up being either too clinical, or not focused on the experience of actually living with the disease.
Looking back on it, David said, “We were always concerned about how to live with Parkinson’s every day because these are the things that you don’t talk about. We searched for videos and resources that could give us practical advice but came up short.”
So what does a guy like David do when he can’t find what he needs? He builds it himself!
David started his own YouTube channel, “Life with Parkinson’s,” and began sharing his experiences, both good and bad. It’s a remarkable and unique documentation of the struggles of daily life with Parkinson’s, as well as an informative, revealing and, at times, entertaining look at what he and others deal with every day.
In David’s words , “The idea was to provide information and support that we couldn’t find elsewhere. The channel started with basic exercise videos and has since evolved into a comprehensive resource for those living with Parkinson’s.”
Exploring red light therapy for Parkinson’s disease
Among the various alternative treatments David has explored, red light therapy began to stand out as a promising option. Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low-level red light, which is believed to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular processes. It’s based on the principle that red light can enhance mitochondrial function, potentially leading to improved cellular health and reduced inflammation.
On his channel, David shows us the potential benefits of red light therapy for individuals with Parkinson’s from his own point of view.
“Red light therapy has been a game changer for many people with Parkinson’s. While it’s not a cure, it helps manage symptoms by reducing inflammation and potentially improving brain function,” he said.
The therapy works by increasing cellular energy production, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's. By enhancing mitochondrial activity, red light therapy may help improve motor function, reduce tremors, and alleviate rigidity.
Personal experiences and community feedback
David’s personal experience with red light therapy has been positive, but he emphasizes the importance of maintaining realistic expectations. “It’s essential to approach red light therapy with an open mind but also with a balanced perspective,” he advises. “It’s not a miracle cure, but it’s a tool that can help improve quality of life.” David's cautious optimism reflects the broader sentiment in the Parkinson’s community, where red light therapy is seen as a valuable supplementary treatment rather than a standalone solution.
The feedback from the Parkinson's community has been overwhelming for David. Many individuals have reported noticeable improvements in their symptoms, such as reduced tremors and increased mobility, after incorporating red light therapy into their routine.
David is quick to point out the positive nature of these responses, saying, “The feedback from those who have tried red light therapy has been overwhelmingly positive. People are finding it helpful in managing their symptoms, and that’s encouraging. It’s a testament to the potential of alternative therapies in complementing traditional treatments.”
However, David also stresses the importance of considering individual needs and responses to treatment. “What works for one person may not work for another,” he notes. “It’s important to personalize treatment plans and consult with healthcare professionals to determine what’s best for each individual.”
Caution and responsibility in adopting new treatments and technologies
Despite the potential benefits of red light therapy, David emphasizes the importance of cautious and informed adoption of new therapies. He underscores the need for thorough research and consultation with healthcare providers before starting any new treatment. “It’s crucial to do your own research and consult with your doctor before beginning any new therapy,” David advises. “Managing Parkinson's often involves a combination of traditional and alternative approaches, and red light therapy should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.”
David’s approach to integrating red light therapy into his routine reflects a responsible attitude towards new treatments. He’ll be the first to warn against relying solely on alternative therapies without considering their role within a broader treatment strategy.
“Red light therapy can be a valuable tool, but it’s important to manage expectations and understand that it’s not a substitute for conventional treatments,” he says.
The challenge of information overload
One of the significant challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s is the overwhelming amount of information available about new treatments and therapies. The rise of the internet and social media has led to an influx of information, much of which may be misleading or unverified.
David acknowledges this challenge and advises caution when navigating the sea of information. “There’s a lot of information out there, and not all of it is accurate or helpful,” he warns. “People need to be careful about where they get their information and ensure that it’s backed by credible sources.”
David's YouTube channel aims to address this issue by providing vetted, reliable information about Parkinson's management and alternative therapies. “I try to ensure that the information I share is based on research and personal experience,” he explains. “Before presenting anything on the channel, I thoroughly research and test it myself. It’s important for me to provide accurate and helpful information to my viewers.”
Building a supportive community
David’s efforts extend beyond just providing information; he is also dedicated to fostering a supportive community for those affected by Parkinson’s. The feedback and interactions with his audience have highlighted the importance of connection and shared experiences.
“The Parkinson’s community is incredibly supportive and welcoming,” David says. “People are eager to share their experiences and support one another. It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of those living with Parkinson’s.”
David’s channel serves as a platform for individuals to connect, share their stories, and find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their journey. “The sense of community and mutual support is invaluable,” he says. “It helps people feel less isolated and more empowered in managing their condition.”
Finding ways to rise above
Red light therapy represents an exciting development in the management of Parkinson’s disease, offering potential benefits in symptom relief and overall quality of life. While it is not a cure, its role as a supplementary treatment can be significant for those struggling with the challenges of Parkinson’s. David’s personal journey and advocacy show us all just how important it is to explore various treatment options while still trying to stay informed about new developments for this, and other issues.
As David aptly puts it, “Combining traditional medical treatments with innovative therapies like red light therapy can offer a more comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson’s. It’s about finding what works best for each individual and maintaining a balanced perspective.”
By embracing a holistic approach to treatment and getting involved in communities like the one that David has built, individuals with Parkinson’s can navigate their condition with greater confidence and improved well-being.
And we’re grateful to David, and others like him, who inspire us on a daily basis. Visit David’s channel and support him and his journey here.
