Switched On: Real Experiences of Deep Brain Stimulation

Deep Brain Stimulation can sound terrifying when you first hear about it — and both Jo Tosh and Kuhan Pushparatnam will be the first to admit they felt exactly that way. In this episode, Maria and Vicky are joined by two people navigating it with wisdom, warmth, and a refreshing refusal to let it define them. Jo is a Parkinson's UK advocate who had DBS three years ago after a decade with Parkinson's; Kuhan is the co-host of 2 Parkies in a Pod, just five months on from his own procedure. Together, they paint a vivid and honest picture of what DBS is really like — from the surgery itself and the moment the device is switched on, to the gradual (and sometimes unexpected) adjustments that follow.They cover everything from how DBS differs for everyone, to managing medication changes, navigating airports with an implanted device, and adapting activities like tennis and swimming when coordination shifts post-surgery. Kuhan also shares his excitement about adaptive DBS — cutting-edge technology that reads your brain and adjusts stimulation automatically — while Jo reflects on her role helping to shape the future of DBS care through patient advisory boards.Both Jo and Kuhan speak about gratitude with a conviction that only comes from knowing what the alternative feels like. Two people, two journeys — and a conversation that stays with you.🔗 Full show notes: https://shakingitupwithparkinsonspodcast.com/episode-2-deep-brain-stimulation/