How Do You Know When It’s Time for DBS? Kelly Gayer’s Parkinson’s Journey

Deciding whether to move forward with deep brain stimulation can feel like a huge step. In this episode, we talk with Kelly Geyer about his Parkinson’s journey, what led him to start considering DBS, and how he worked through the decision. Kelly shares what the evaluation process was like, what he hopes DBS will improve, what it can’t fix, and some of the emotional questions that come with making a decision like this. We also talk about device options, surgery, long-term maintenance, personality changes, expectations, and why having a medical team you trust matters so much. If you’re considering DBS—or just starting to wonder whether it could someday be an option for you—Kelly’s experience offers a really honest look at what goes into that decision. Chapters 00:00 – Meet Kelly and His Parkinson’s Story 03:18 – When Medication Wasn’t Enough 05:40 – When DBS Entered the Conversation 06:37 – What the DBS Evaluation Really Looks Like 08:28 – The Emotional Side of Saying Yes to DBS 11:15 – What Kelly Hopes DBS Will Change 12:40 – Understanding What DBS Can—and Can’t—Do 18:49 – Surgery, Device Options and Battery Life 24:58 – Kelly’s Advice for Anyone Considering DBS 25:24 – Finding Support in the Parkinson’s Community This episode was brought to you by Changing Parkinson's. If this podcast has meant something to you, consider making a gift to help keep it going. And join our PDNextSteps Home Workout Series with over 100 custom workouts delivered to your living room. Visit http://changingparkinsons.org to give, get moving, or join our newsletter. #Parkinsons #ParkinsonsDisease #ChangingParkinsons #Neurologists