‘Why am I so tired?’ features occupational therapist Emma Bracher

Research shows, fatigue is the most burdensome symptoms for people with Parkinson’s, yet it’s still one of the least talked about and least understood.

So what is Parkinson’s fatigue? What causes it? And is there anything we can do to live with it — or even prevent it?

This week on 2 Parkies, we’re joined by Emma Bracher, Specialist Occupational Therapist and founder of Bigger & Better, a fitness and wellbeing programme designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

Emma shares her expert insight into:

• What Parkinson’s fatigue really is (and why it’s more than “just being tired”)
• Why fatigue can be so debilitating
• Practical strategies to manage energy levels day-to-day
• How occupational therapy helps people with Parkinson’s improve their ability to carry out everyday tasks and stay independent

We also get to know Emma’s personal journey — having a dad who has Parkinson’s, to how a six-year adventure in Australia inspired her to become a healthcare professional. And because it wouldn’t be 2 Parkies without a bit of fun, we also discover how Emma’s husband has turned their garage into an unexpected shrine to darts 🎯
An honest, informative, and uplifting conversation about one of Parkinson’s toughest symptoms — with plenty of practical takeaways along the way.

Links:

How can Occupational Therapy help me

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/magazine/spotlight/how-can-occupational-therapy-help-me-if-i-have-parkinsons

Bigger and better

https://www.biggerandbetterforparkinsons.co.uk/

2 Parkies Bobble hats - use the code WarmFeb (up to 28/2) at checkout to receive 10% off any clothing

https://shop.parkinsons.org.uk/collections/parkinsons-uk-merchandise-1/2-parkies-in-a-pod

The Tremor-Loes Choir

https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_n6FHxcvIQZTpv7mA4AObHQlpXg2Si5Exc

Larry 100 Marathons

https://secure2.convio.net/dpf/site/Donation2?mfc_pref=T&2720.donation=form1&df_id=2720

Skateboarding Parkie Phillip Brown

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCulUIOyLhCDo8YnwRqSL77Q

The Shaking It Up Parkinson’s Podcast

https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com/launch-trailer/

Parkinson’s Medication Explained with Professor Jane Alty from the University of Tasmania.

Parkinson’s meds can feel overwhelming. If you don’t know your Entacapone from your elbow, this is the Podcast for you.

The professor cuts through the confusion — busting myths and jargon explaining what each medication actually does, and why treatment should always be personal. From first prescription to advanced therapies, this is a must-listen for anyone navigating Parkinson’s.

Key Topics:

• When is the right time to start Parkinson's medication? (and why waiting isn’t always better)
• Understanding the role of Levodopa and its brand vs. generic versions
• Why dosing isn’t one size fits all
• Managing motor fluctuations and dyskinesia with medication adjustments
• The function and timing of dopamine agonists and side effect considerations ..like risk of gambling
• Managing OFF time, fluctuations, and dyskinesia
• Dopamine agonists: benefits, risks, and side effects
• Pumps, DBS, and other device-assisted therapies
• Supplements like Macuna and CBD: hype vs evidence
• Why honest doctor–patient conversations change outcomes
• Resources including the Parkinson's MOOC for patients and carers

• Parkinson’s UK Medication

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/information/drugs

Parkinson’s MOOC (massive open online course)

https://mooc.utas.edu.au/course/20392

Parkinson’s Weekly Prof Bas Bloem (talking about Amandatine)

https://oruen.com/category/podcasts/parkinson-weekly

Megan’s Yogathon for Parkinson’s UK

https://www.justgiving.com/page/megan-jones-1764255759495?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

Anders M. Leines ‘This is Parkinson’s’

https://www.detteerparkinson.no/en/media

Emma Lawton ‘The Bendy Pencil’

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/thebendypencil

Miracle grandfather battling Parkinson's, 74, survives 60m mountain fall

https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2161180/grandfather-battling-parkinsons-survives-60/amp

Season's Greetings from 2 Parkies in a Pod !
Dave and Kuhan get in the festive spirit as they open the postbag and share some truly inspiring stories from the community ..including the challenges of running a nuclear power plant with Parkinson's, more remarkable DNA stories and we hear from friends.. old and new.

Plus 2 Parkies in a Pod receives its own community award !
As always - honest conversations, real lives, and a bit of festive cheer along the way…
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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