Ray Dorsey: Can We Create a World Without Parkinson’s?

Today on Face2Face, David Peck speaks with neurologist, researcher and author Dr. E. Ray Dorsey to talk about his provocative and hopeful new book, The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment. A chance encounter at Toronto Pearson Airport led David to this deeply personal conversation about a disease his father lived with for more than 30 years. Together they explore the growing evidence linking Parkinson’s to environmental toxins, the importance of questioning medical assumptions, and why prevention deserves far more attention. They also talk about patient-centred care, scientific curiosity, corporate and political responsibility, and the power of communities to create meaningful change. Ultimately, the conversation returns to a remarkable possibility: that Parkinson’s may not be inevitable, and that by asking better questions and acting together, we might help create a world where far fewer people must experience it. Dr. E. Ray Dorsey is a neurologist, researcher, author and professor of neurology at the University of Rochester. He is internationally recognized for his work exploring the environmental factors associated with Parkinson’s disease and for advocating a fundamental shift toward prevention. Alongside fellow neurologist Dr. Michael S. Okun, he is the co-author of The Parkinson’s Plan: A New Path to Prevention and Treatment and Ending Parkinson’s Disease. His work challenges conventional assumptions about neurological illness, emphasizing the roles of environmental exposures, public health policy and patient-centred care. Dorsey believes that Parkinson’s disease is not an inevitable consequence of ageing and that identifying and addressing preventable risk factors could dramatically reduce its burden. Through research, public advocacy and accessible storytelling, he is working toward an ambitious goal: creating a world in which far fewer people develop Parkinson’s disease. David Peck is a writer, speaker, and award-winning podcaster who works at the intersection of storytelling, social change, and meaningful dialogue. As the host of Face2Face and former host of Toronto Threads on 640 AM, he has published over 800 in-depth interviews with some of the world’s most compelling thinkers, artists and storytellers, including Viggo Mortensen, Sarah Polley, Raoul Peck, Werner Herzog, Chris Hadfield, David Cronenberg, Jason Issacs, Gillian Anderson and Wade Davis. With a background in philosophy and international development, David brings a thoughtful, globally aware perspective to every conversation. He’s a published author and experienced keynote speaker, known for creating spaces where complexity is welcomed and ideas come alive. Whether moderating panels, hosting live events, or speaking on issues ranging from ethics to media, David’s work is grounded in a deep curiosity about people. At heart, he simply loves good conversation — and believes it’s one of the best ways we grow, connect, and make sense of the world. For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking, please visit his site: www.davidpecklive.com F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.