Rich Gootee

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier talks with Rich Gootee. Rich is a Nashville singer, guitarist, and award-winning songwriter whose career has spanned decades. He is recognized for writing contemporary Christian music, including Petra’s hit “Just Reach Out.” More recently, Rich co-wrote the Parkinson’s anthem “You Are Not Alone,” which received international recognition at the World Parkinson Congress. Today, Rich continues to inspire audiences through his music, sharing hope and encouragement drawn from his personal journey with Parkinson’s. If you are a musician with Parkinson's, I would love to hear from you. I believe that when we share our stories, others on the Parkinson's journey will feel less alone. ABOUT CONDUCTING PARKINSON’S: I’m Thomas Verrier, conductor of the Vanderbilt University Wind Symphony, and I have Parkinson’s Disease. I have come to accept that Parkinson’s Disease will significantly shape my future. However, my acceptance does not equate to resignation. Quite the opposite, it has given me a strong sense of purpose and motivation! It is my desire that by sharing my story, others facing Parkinson’s Disease will know that they are not alone. I hope to inspire perseverance and adaptation; to create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; to foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and to raise awareness and understanding among others in the broader community. FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons #parkinsondiseaseawareness#parkinsonsawareness#michaeljfoxfoundation