Conducting Parkinson's Conversations: Bob Regan

In this episode of Conducting Parkinson’s Conversations, Thomas Verrier’s guest is Bob Regan. Bob began his career as a recording artist and session guitarist—eventually performing as a guitarist on the Grand Ole Opry. Songwriting brought him some of his greatest recognition. Since coming to Nashville, Bob has had more than 200 songs recorded, including hits for Trisha Yearwood, Keith Urban, Reba McEntire, Tanya Tucker, Billy Ray Cyrus, Randy Travis, and many others. His work has earned both Grammy and Dove Award nominations. Bob also served three terms as president of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, and he also founded Operation Song, which brings songwriters together with veterans and military families to help tell their stories through music. More recently, Bob has turned his storytelling talents to essays, including deeply personal pieces published in The Boston Globe. His work as a writer, songwriter, and advocate has also been recognized with the William Randolph Hearst Award. Today, Bob is facing another chapter: living with Parkinson’s disease. He has spoken candidly about the challenges of the diagnosis and the uncertainty that comes with a progressive illness. 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; create a forum for sharing and comparing experiences; foster a supportive network of conductors/musicians with Parkinson’s; and raise awareness and understanding in the broader community. FOLLOW ON SOCIALS: www.instagram.com/conductingparkinsons www.facebook.com/conductingparkinsons #parkinsondiseaseawareness #parkinsonsawareness #michaeljfoxfoundation