Books & Resources

People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and police often have unpleasant interactions that result from officers’ lack of awareness of the symptoms, for example, when tremors are mistaken for inebriation. In this research-based book, passionate Parkinson’s advocate Dr. George Ackerman describes initial police training and focuses on the great need in the law enforcement field for PD awareness. 

The Proactive Brain Health Alliance (PBHA) is a public education and support initiative designed for people who want to take steps to reduce their risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, before they have a diagnosis — or while they may be in the very early (prodromal) stages of disease. It is led by the Parkinson & Movement Disorder Alliance (PMD Alliance).

Puck Farkinson's: A Parkinson's Memoir is an inspiring book by Mike Justak, who was diagnosed with Early Onset Parkinson's disease at 47. This memoir showcases his resilience and determination in the face of the progressive disease, offering hope to readers.

A lighthearted, practical guide to thriving — not just surviving — with Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosed at 53, Victor Becker shares 20 years of firsthand experience, offering humor, hope and actionable tips for navigating life with PD. Perfect for newly diagnosed patients, families and anyone seeking inspiration to punch out Parkinson’s.

This first-person account of one man’s journey with Parkinson’s, his climb to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, his involvement with Team Fox and how these experiences have impacted him and his family.

A deeply moving, unflinchingly honest memoir by the renowned political journalist of his extraordinary relationship with his wife, Milly, and how her battle with Parkinson’s disease has transformed their lives.

Benedict Marshall is a charismatic, articulate, award winning playwright. At 62, his life is altered dramatically in one week by two events - being diagnosed with Parkinson’s and meeting Nell, a much younger, out of work actress. They form an instant and unlikely close friendship. As they grow closer, Benedict valiantly battles against his Parkinson’s with black humour and charm, while trying to deny to his family and himself, his unspoken love for the young woman who everyone warns him can only be after his money.

After receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Torrance York focused her camera on the goal to integrate this life-altering information into her sense of self. In Semaphore, her response to this personal challenge, York presents a visual journey of poetic images that articulate the shift in her perspective post-diagnosis. York’s quiet, generous and luminous photographs bare human vulnerability, while inspiring optimism and connection. Semaphore includes 67 photographs and texts by York and Rebecca Senf, PhD. 

Interested readers may preorder Semaphore and learn more about the artist at  www.torranceyork.com

(Paperback published 2001 by Jones & Bartlett Publishers)

This book serves as a guide and conversation starter for children with a loved one with Parkinson’s. It addresses many of their questions around PD and treatment, emotions they may experience and how they can help. Proceeds benefit The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.