So, this one’s been coming for a while. And it’s not the kind of blog post you’ve been accustomed to reading.
Today, I’m sharing news about me. And while a number of posts I write include some “real life” moments here and there, memories from my programming days or Jacobs Media stories over the decades, I tend to shy away from intensely personal news as that is not what JacoBLOG is all about nor is it in my comfort zone.
However, today’s the exception. I’ve been walking around with a secret that actually isn’t all that mysterious to those I know and interact with. It’s health news, and I realize that on the surface, that sounds scary. But in my case, things are going quite well overall, and I feel compelled to share the news with you.
A couple years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. You may not be that familiar with it (in fact, I wasn’t until I was told I have it). It’s become more common in recent years as a number of famous folks are in this “club,” including Ozzy Osbourne, Muhammed Ali, Alan Alda, Brett Favre, and Billy Graham. Perhaps the most publicized case is Michael J. Fox who tragically got his bad news at age 29. His version of Parkinson’s is quite a bit different than mine. You might also know he has a well-known foundation named after him, working hard to find a cure.
On the Detroit front, former Detroit Tiger (and LA Dodger) star, Kirk Gibson, has also been dealing with “Parky” as he calls it. Later this year, he’s cutting the ribbon on “Kirk Gibson’s Center for Parkinson’s Wellness” in metro Detroit.
Back to me, I noticed a tremor in my left forefinger back in 2017, and my physician sent me to a neurologist. He tested me, and concluded I didn’t have it—at least then.
A few years later, the tremor became more noticeable, and again, I went to the same neurologist. This time around, my result was borderline. A few months later, he was more sure of my situation, declaring me a 70 year-old with Parkinson’s.
One of the weird things about this disease is there’s no definitive test—like a blood draw or MRI—to absolutely inform you whether or not you have it. Instead, they put you through a whole battery of tests—walking briskly, touching fingers to your nose, eye/hand coordination stuff.
Since being diagnosed, I’ve been on the standard PD meds, and I can say it’s working pretty well. Sometimes the drugs seem to work well, while at other times, its impact seems negligible.
Except the tremor. If I’m stressed or keyed up (like before a speech), the shaking can be worse. And while I can carry heavier objects like my backpack in my left hand with no problem and I can even shave, even a simple task of carrying a cup of coffee in my left hand is a challenge. Oh, did I mention I’m lefthanded?
So I’ve spent the last couple years trying to hide the tremor. Some attempts have been better than others, but many of you have noticed and asked me (or Paul) what’s going on. And I always tell whoever asks why my hand shakes. But to the larger population in the industry, I’ve attempted to keep it quiet.
Until now.
It has taken a lot of effort and focus to keep that left hand under wraps and relatively calm. When I’m on stage, it’s often in my left pocket, mic in the right hand. (A lavalier mic is always a plus.) But I talk with my hands, so that left hand always seems to make an appearance especially when the adrenalin starts flowing.
Trying to hide it has diverted my focus to the tremor and away from my speech, presentation, or meeting. And I’ve reached the conclusion that by telling you about it, neither of us will spend much time thinking about it. At least, that’s the goal.
The events that led me to making this decision were Morning Show Boot Camp a couple weeks ago, and the Public Media Content Conference happening right now in Salt Lake City. I’ll be unveiling the key findings of our 17th annual Public Radio Techsurvey to public radio managers Thursday morning, and frankly, I want my concentration on making this data talk, and helping public stations cope with the quantum changes impacting their community at this time. Suffice it to say, public media is at an inflection point. While PRTS may not solve the problems of the world, I believe it can help them better understand how the playing field is changing, and where to go from here. I want to be on my game.
At Boot Camp, I was chatting with Don Anthony about an hour before my panel. As he already knew about my Parkinson’s adventure, I was sharing with him that I was feeling more conspicuous about the tremor lately. And he looked me in the eye and said, “Don’t think about it. People are in the room to see you and hear what you have to say. They don’t care that your hand shakes.”
So, that’s it. I appreciate your support and friendship over the years, and especially to those who frequently read my writing here. I have always valued my radio family.
And I’ve got a strong support system here at home, thanks especially to Paul, and my team at Jacobs Media. And of course, my wife, Debra, and our kids. I’m lucky to have these people around me, helping me keep it all in perspective.
If I manage this beast well. and maybe get a little lucky, I think I’ve got a number of solid years ahead where I’ll be able to continue making a contribution at a performance level that meets my standards. Over the last two years, I’ve made numerous market visits, speeches and presentations, and conducted many focus groups and research presentations. I’m not planning on that changing.
But who the hell knows, right?
Thanks for reading this. Everyone has something—or will at some point. So in that context, there’s nothing really special going on here. This was just my moment to get some tough news, because it comes to all of us sooner or later.
When I first got the news, it was a stunner. And after a period of denial, I do what I do.
There are hours that go by where I don’t even think about it. So I’m putting it out there in the hope you don’t think about it much either.
Life goes on.
FYI: The Michael J. Fox Foundation
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Lots of love coming your way from the Twin Cities Fred. Grateful for you and your contributions to this industry, which are too many to count. Thank you for sharing what is happening in your world. We’re praying for you at 98.5 KTIS!
Fred we will always be by your side no matter what the situation. Never forget that during good and bad times.
I wish you the best. I can only imagine what you must feel. Thank you for all the information you give us each day, and here’s to much more. Just know we all support you, and as you were told, we are all here to listen to you.
Thanks for sharing, Fred, much love and prayers for you, keep doing what you do, your purpose and tenacity will not allow any struggles to silence that amazing brain of yours!
Wishing you the best of luck, Fred. You have a huge support system out here.
Stay strong and rock on !!
You have a brilliant mind and your contributions to the industry are innumerable and for that we who know you appreciate your candor and open, honest dialog. Parkinson’s is very manageable if you follow the protocols especially keep moving! You are a champion and will beat it back with all you’ve got. You have many fans in your corner. And you are correct, as we age something’s gonna get us all and will try to take us down but you’ve got this guy!! Keep moving and stay strong!!
Gayle, I appreciate these very encouraging words. Thanks for the love and support. It was great to see you earlier this summer, despite the sad circumstnaces. All the best to your family!
All the best to you, Fred. Thank you for sharing this news with us.
Much like on air talent, sharing something personal like this with your audience takes courage! Thanks for being vulnerable with our radio community and for continuing to contribute so much for us all.
Think about what?☺️
You’re the best at what you do and that’s a fact!
Takes alot of strength to share certain concerns in life. As we said in the Army, We got your six. Thanks Fred.
Your are a true legend and good man
I wish you all the best always and will pray for your longevity
Wishing you the very best throughout this journey. We’re all with you, Fred!
As difficult as that must have been… you did it with the usual flair and humor that I have come to expect from your posts. Thank you for sharing! xoxo
Wishing you continued strength and health in your journey. Your former office mate in years gone by.
Fred,
I commend you on the strength and courage necessary to decide such a positive approach toward your challenges. I’m also not surprised at the path you’ve chosen. Kirk Gibson became the stuff of legend, crushing home runs when it mattered despite his failing legs. Fred Jacobs will continue to crush home runs for our brands even if he has to switch from being a left handed hitter to a right handed one.
Much love, respect, and gratitude.
Keith H
Fred, reading your words today moved me deeply.
Please know that your honesty and courage are inspiring, and your wisdom has been a guiding light for so many of us in radio, myself included.
I want to thank you for everything I’ve learned from your insights over the years — they have shaped and enriched my own path.
You have my admiration, my gratitude, and my heartfelt support. I am confident that the same passion and strength you’ve always shared with us will carry you forward in this new chapter.
Stay strong and keep your optimism shining!
Appreciate your honesty and courage Fred. I promise not to think about it if you do! 🙂
Dave Farough
Programming | Talent Development
Vista Radio & Acadia Broadcasting
London, Ontario
Thanks for sharing, Fred. You always manage to inspire! Best wishes.
Fred,
Your post took courage and strength. May you continue to have both for a very long time.
Like Don said, we were at Bootcamp to see you and hear what you had to say. Your panel was great, but getting a few minutes to catch up was even better. Sending positive thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for sharing. Keep up the outstanding work. My prayers are with you.
Thanks so much for the personal insight. You’re a very great person. Thank you from a fellow southpaw broadcaster.
Brave of you to share Fred! From another left handed, two fingered colleague and friend you got this!
Truer words were never spoken: Everyone’s got SOMETHING.
As my (our?) peer group ages I see more and more friends with tremors of varying degrees. I honestly don’t give it any more thought or judgment than I do when someone shows up with a few more grey hairs, or a couple more wrinkles than the last time I saw them. Because: Everyone’s got something.
I hope you feel tremendous relief sharing your update and hearing warm support from all these nice people.
Now back to your regularly scheduled genius work.
Rock and Roll is here to stay! And so is Fred Jacobs.
Stay strong!
Wishing you all the best.
Thanks Fred. I’ve been on Parkinson watch myself with some predictors in my health profile. Principally that my dad had what we all called mild Parkinson’s. Thankfully it never advanced to severe tremors nor compromised his movement dramatically and certainly not his mind as he made it to a full 93 without the condition being what sent him along.
I know your health team has told you many paths with it are possible. I’m going to visualize a manageable and many-years story for you that are still filled with richness and more of what you love best.
You’re easily the most wise and thoughtful person I ever crossed paths with in this wonky business, and probably responsible for both my biggest break in commercial broadcasting and, maybe too, my break away from commercial broadcasting that landed me ultimately where I probably belonged all the time… in public media and, eventually, like you, working for myself.
My thoughts and respect will remain with you as always. Thanks for bravely sharing the news. The truth always sets you free…and allows more love to flow towards you. “And you know that can’t be bad.”
Amen 100 percent. Parky runs in my family, too, and luckily it’s been no more than an “intention tremor” since adolescence, though in recent years a bit more noticeable. Not a debility, Fred! Keep calm and carry on in your lifelong trajectory of excellence and brilliance.
Best regards from the Pine Tree State.
The good news is you have lived long enough to get an “old persons “disease .
The better news is nobody cares that your hand shakes 🤣
Keep doing what you do so we’ll, Fred. People who know you will overlook a hand tremor because they know you aren’t nervous doing public speaking!
Thanks for sharing your situation. I’m confident you have many good years ahead helping the industry shake off its challenges.
Sharing a private challenge is never easy. Feeling the love from your friends and family makes the task seem easier. Accept it. You have a huge support group here. We are with you now and in the days to come.
Thanks for sharing, Fred. I look forward to seeing you in Salt Lake City tomorrow where I can share my best wishes in-person.
Beverlee’s comment is so on target. We’ve all got something! While your imperfect self is managing life with PD, the perfect part of you is on display daily. Keep being fabulous. Much love and support from a fellow Fred.
You are and always have been a pro, this blog is further proof. You are the best my friend. What you have just done must have been very hard. As with all of the comments above I put you up for letting us know and putting your followers first. Keep up the good fight and I look forward to seeing you in person some time in the future.
Take care of yourself, Fred. Perhaps no longer having the burden of the secret will be of some help, at least for your mental health. God bless you.
Sending you much love! Thank you for being so open. As you said, we all have something, and sharing it makes the load lighter for all of us.
I commend you Fred for the courage to share this info but not surprising as you have an earned reputation for leaning into the biggest challenges. You have always and will continue to leave a deep footprint in the industry and your support system will only get bigger.
My heart goes out to you, my friend. It’s good that you opened up about it so you can take that burden off your mind. You’re right, everyone has something so it’s ok to be you. My dad had Parkinson’s so I’m somewhat familiar with the challenges that can bring. Your attitude and love of life will be a big plus as it was for my dad. Keep doing your great work and enjoying time with your loved ones. You have tons of support from your family, friends, and the radio community, myself included.
Very sorry to read this, Fred. My sister was diagnosed with “Parky” 10 years ago, and the Doc then said ” With the medications we have, you have at least 10 good years in front of you. And with the advances we’re making, I will be able to tell you the same thing in 5 years”. Trish would tell you that has proved to be true. I wish the same for you!
You often borrow song titles to name your posts, so may I suggest “You Shook Me (All Night Long)” by AC/DC, “Shake It Up” by the Cars, or obviously Alanis Morissette’s “Hand In My Pocket”?
Thanks for this, Fred. Reading your blog makes us smarter. Observing how you take on life’s challenges has always made us better.
Dave, I miss you. Having good friends and loving poeple I’ve worked with in the past makes these challenging moments bearable. Thank you!
WOW….look at all the people who love and support you Fred! It doesn’t surprise me one bit. You are a strong man and will not let this slow you down one bit. However, I’m still expecting you to be at my big birthday party next month…and stay for more than 20 minutes. Now, look at the upside, maybe you’ll be able to get pre-board on all of your many flights!
Oh, Art! Where do I start? With a thank you for your friendship and all YOU do and have done for this industry.
My mother had it and my older brother has it. I’m very sorry to hear that you do too. Sounds like you have a lot of support so stay stubborn and fight it with research, activity, supplements possibly. A lot of developments.
I have a lot of respect and admire everything you’ve accomplished. Keep going!
Peace ☮️
Billy
I’m getting there, Billy! Thanks for the encouraging words.
Fred- thanks for sharing. Jacobs Media has always been a beacon for the industry. During my 10 years in LA you helped us turn our struggles into success’s and you were always grounded and logical with your guidance. Radio is lucky to have you. Stay well and while I’m no longer in the industry I look forward to reading your insightful information whenever you post.
Peter, your support and friendship are very much appreciated. Thank YOU!
I’m sorry to hear this–but also agree that it’s good to be open about it. If it helps at all, I’d also recommend both the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) and the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Thank you, Eric. Will check ’em out.
Tough news, Fred. It’s a baffling disease, and I’ve come to know that it’s a different experience for different people. I’ve known a few too many friends who are dealing with it. Exercise seems to make a world of difference both mentally and physically. Around here, they’re big on boxing workouts that seem to be good for coordination, stamina, and getting some aggression out, easing frustration.
The key thing seems to be “Do the best you can with what you’ve got every day.” Best of luck on your journey.
Appreciate it, Brian! Thanks for these words of support!
Fred,
I’m happy to see your courage sharing this personal news publicly with your peers. When we had dinner recently in Austin during MSBC, I noticed a small shake in your left hand but didn’t inquire about it. We did address some personal things you asked me about including my beliefs, spirituality etc. which was a very rewarding conversation. I knew when I dropped you off at your hotel that evening that when the time was right, you would tell everyone if there was a problem. And you did exactly that. I’m proud of you and it is a pleasure still to be working with you for decades. March on and stay strong!
LA Lloyd
Fred, you’re the best in the business. And I am so glad we worked for some of the same owners over the years. Everyone wants to know what you, and and your crew at Jacobs Media, have to say. And we’re all with you in this. Thank you for sharing this personal side. All the best to you, my radio friend.
Fred, this year’s AQ session at MSBC shined brighter than ever. And so did you. So happy that things are ‘going quite well overall.’ Hope they continue on that path for many years to come! Big hugs and well-wishes. DA
Thanks for your friendship and support, Don. And for putting me on that MSBC stage!
Thanks for sharing this personal story, Fred.
Your left hand may be shaky, but all of us know your insights are not!
Best wishes!
Fred, you’ve educated and inspired me so much over the years I feel like I know you even though we’ve never met. Sharing this personal information is brave and will not only unburden but also embolden you. Wishing you the very best!
Fred,
You’ve done so much for our industry, you can count on us to be behind you no matter what. You’ve forgotten more than most of us will ever learn. Hang in there my friend.
The support never gets old, my friend. Thanks for the kind words!
My prayers are with you, Fred. I am just one more of the thousands of people you have inspired, mentored, and entertained for decades. I wish you the best. I’ll be reading the blog and watching all your content, like always!
Mike, I just responded to Carol Commander, and so appreciate my Norfolk fam. Thanks for much for reaching out.
Thanks for sharing your journey Fred. Parkinson’s picked the wrong person to mess with. You’ve got grit, heart, and a sense of humor that could outlast anything. If attitude counts, you’re already winning. We all could use a little more ‘don’t worry about my hand…listen to what I am saying’ these days. Rock on!
Michael, thanks for these inspiring words. So nice to hear from you after so long.
Fred, this could be the most number of comments to an article I’ve seen on your page. Just goes to show you the love and respect people both inside and out of the industry have for you (and your brother, and your company).
It HAS been overwhelming. I am thankful and grateful as I read them. Thank you for reaching out.
Hang in there, Fred. Keeping it under control goes a long way toward defeating it.
Think of how many medical conditions were considered non-treatable in the past but are not anymore. That alone, I hope, will give you hope.
Thanks for sharing. I know you must have wrestled with it in your mind before deciding to write this blog entry.
Hi Fred –
Beautifully communicated. I wish you the very best of care of comfort available.
Yours truly,
Rob Tonkin
Most appreciated, Rob. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing Fred. As you know, life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans. I appreciate all you’ve done for our business. Best of luck with your treatment.
Thanks, Don. I’m looking forward and keeping it positive.
Fred, I worked with you at The Mountain 99.5 in Denver a few years back. IMHO, you’ve made a great decision. My takeaway is what you said about everyone eventually getting something, and it’s true. We all need to remember how quickly life can change for any one of us. And this is a great lesson for me too… you’ve done a wonderful thing by sharing this. I will tell you plain… someday it will help me deal. Thanks Fred!!!
Thanks, Steve – it’s been a minute. I appreciate these kind words!
Fred – Greetings from the Norfolk market and thank you for sharing such a personal post and battle. You’re a titan in our industry and are clearly appreciated by many, myself included. Sending positive thoughts and prayers your way.
Norfolk – my first rock radio client and the place where I learned a ton and carved out SO many friendships. Appreciate you, Carol. Thanks for reeaching out.
Fred, Thank you for sharing this, courageously and generously. You are a titan.
Brad, thank you for these very kind words. Much appreciated.
You are filled with grace, Fred. You have helped MANY people in this world. May their love and prayers come to you…
I so appreciate our friendship, Sky, and your kind words of support!
Fred, when I was a regional manager at Family Radio, and an employee would be concerned about some personal problem and how it might impact their work, I always had one standard reply: “We are Family Radio — in that order.”
You referred to us as “radio family.” I’m sure I speak for us all when I say we think of you as family FIRST — and then you just happen to be this family member who knows FONS of fun and interesting and insightful and helpful stuff about radio, too!
You won’t be surprised to know you’re in my prayers. You won’t be surprised to know you’ll continue to be.
Peace and blessings, my friend. Keep looking up.
Inspirational, as always, David. Thanks for the support and for “being there.”
Fred… I say this with Love …you’ve been shaking the media world for decades. This is nothing. What you say, the weight of your words and your impact on media and music …is unshakeable. Much respect for you friend.
Thank you. (My son, Mickey, wanted me to title the post, “What’s Shakin’?” but I resisted the urge.) Thanks for your support and friendship throughout.
Fred, you are the last bastion of non-biased (and non-press release) fact-based information, informed with forethought and in-depth research, gathered and concisely posted each day, that we former and current broadcast peoples can rely upon. You are a beacon and a true pioneer of the lasting, proven iconic classic rock format and all things radio today. You serve as a testament that we (in our younger years) as informed radio ARTISTS and ADVENTURERS could throw our own convictions against the proverbial radio programming wall to see that which might “stick”. and then go on to convince our peers and fellow visionary managers and owners, via our mutual dedication and fortitude to ride it out mostly to a positive result. So, it is we who should be your supporting strength, backing you up by referring to all that you do and have stated and revealed via your concise research efforts and informed beliefs over these many years, with the knowledge you espouse and speak to the benefit of the industry week in and week out, come what may. Cheers to you Fred. Continue on and have no fear!
G. Michael Keating
Retired 37-year radio veteran
Guy, thanks for recognizing what I’m trying to accomplish here. And I appreciate your kind words.
Fred – you are so right on that “we all have something”. The wonderful blessing of radio is that if you still have something to say, something essential to share with your community, and your pipes are strong, then you should continue. I went through my third bout with cancer in 2023 and 2024. I ended up with major surgery and a permanent colostomy. WRCJ in Detroit could have let me go because I was going to be down for a month. But, I put shows “in the can/audiovault” and one month later, I was back live in studio. Do listeners know? No – but they know their gal Linda is there on Sunday evening with the “Swing Set”. They matter. Understanding audience needs and how radio can adapt matters. You get it. You know. You get up there on that stage and share your research and compassion. Who cares about a hand tremor? What matters is communication and our treasured media – real radio.
Linda, thanks for relating your story. Going through the phases – finding out, denial, overcoming, persevering. It helps (me) to hear them. Appreciate you reaching out.
Fred, you have always done work that matters. You are respected and appreciated not simply for your exceptional contributions to our trade craft but for serving as a continuing inspiration as well. We have all learned from you and today’s lesson is especially poignant as you again stand and dare to be real, to be the Fred Jacobs we love. Here for you, as ever.
Dave, your remarks hit home. Thanks for much for your kind words!
Fred, your courageous honesty is an inspiration. Your leadership and perspective continue to impact the industry. The entire community is behind you.
Mark, that means a great deal. Many thanks for the positive vibes!
You got this Fred!
I hope so, Mile! 🙂 Thanks for reaching out!
Much respect for you, sir! I personally know three other men who are dealing with Parkinson’s, two of whom have now undergone DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) as part of their treatment.
They and now you and your family are on my prayer list.
Blessings, Fred!
Randy, I’m studying DBS (among other things). I’d nice to know much research is being done, and that so many are getting relief. Appreciate the comment.
Wishing you well through this challenging journey, Fred. All my best!
Thanks so much, Tom!
Fred:
50 years ago you were the coolest Grad Asst at Michigan State, prowling the upper floors of the Student Union, then the hub of all Television & Radio classes on campus (I think the following year they changed all the signs to the Telecommunications Department…Tall cotton, for sure!)
Loved your teaching then and have followed your columns and brilliant contributions in programming and research for many years since.
Parkinson’s be damned…you are a giant of the radio industry and will continue in the business for as long as you wish. Pinky promise.
Mike Moody
Michigan State University School of Telecommunications, Class of 1977
Mike, wonderful to hear from you. I have wonderful memories of those MSU days, a formative experience for me. Thanks so much for reaching out and your truly kind words!
Wow! Thank you for sharing your journey with your friends. First, our family prayers are heading your direction.
Two things we all have 100% control over, attitude and the spreading of gratitude. As you’ve shared with us five times a week for years, you have a great grasp on attitude and gratitude.
Moving forward you will navigate this challenge with positive vision. We will all continue to learn from you on so many levels.
All the Best!
Mike, thanks for this. I never think of myself as having anything unique to say about Parkinson’s, but if my post inspires others. I’m good with it.
Hi Fred. Your decision to share your challenge frees up others to also share theirs. That’s pretty empowering, just like everything else you contribute.
Al, if that’s one of the offshoots of sharing my story, I’m happy. Thanks for the kind words.
What a powerful and courageous post, Fred. Thank you for sharing your Parkinson’s diagnosis with such honesty—it’s both humbling and inspiring. Your decision to speak openly about what you’ve been managing privately shows real strength. And it’s a reminder that we all carry unseen stories. Wishing you clarity, calm, and continued impact as you lead in the industry.
Susan, I will happily take all those positive wishes. Thank you!
Good day Fred. I think honesty is always the best way to deal with these situations especially being in the public eye. You have always been a mentor and I appreciate the way you are being open about this turn of events. I am extremely happy that everything seems to be working and I hope the worst of the disease will never be a part of your every day. I recommend getting in contact with former KSPN (ESPN) LA PD Larry Gifford who was diagnosed with it several years ago. He and his wife are very involved with PD Avengers to end Parkinson’s and educate the public. All the best to you.
Hey, Rita. Wonderful to hear from you. I’ve been fortunate so far, but have a lot of work ahead. I have been in touch with Larry, who has been an inspiration. He “came out” early on his PD, and his podcast is excellent. I have been amazed in the hundreds of comments I’ve received just how many people have “Parky” in their families or are walking around with it themselves. Thanks for this and the positive vibes!
Fred,
Beautifully written, as always.
Everybody indeed has something but it takes both wisdom and compassion to frame your own challenges in this way.
You have so many friends and followers exactly because of posts like this one – smart, human, nuanced, funny and wise.
Long may you run!
Fred, sorry to read this news, but your courage and determination to forge ahead is the good news here. Thank you for all you’ve taught all of us broadcasters.
Dave, thanks for your support and friendship over these many years. Means a lot.
Fred, words alone cannot express the respect that all of us in this industry have for you. Stay strong, continue to be your own best self, and we all look forward to reading your daily wisdom for many years to come.
Fred, thanks for yorur kind words. And my writing days will go on!
I hope you will not be surprised to find out how many people care far less about your left hand tremor, and more about you. Thank you for the courage it took to make your illness public. May it inspire others to do likewise.
I’m learning, Turi. It’s a process, and I appreciate you conecting with me.
Fred, I’ve been a supporter of the Parkinson’s Foundation for several years, since I have more than one friend who has been diagnosed with the disease. Medical intervention and physical therapy has helped them, and it seems like your treatment plan is working now for you as well. As a supporter, I get all the news about new breakthroughs, and I’m convinced you will have a lot more options as you power your way into your 80s and beyond. It’s not easy to share with the public such a personal challenge, but then, you’ve always been one to help others break through obstacles of all kinds in their paths. Just reading all the love pouring out to you from the radio community is a tribute not just to your exceptional brain wired for radio, but to who you are as a human being. And Don Anthony was correct — we’re not paying attention to whether or not your hand shakes. Sending you all my love and support.
Corinne, inspirational words, to be sure. I’m optimistic based on just the past couple years. And since going public, I’ve heard from SO many people who are fighting their way through this. Thanks for reaching out.
Heroic words. From you, Fred, I would expect nothing less.
Thanks, my friend, for your onngoing support!
I was diagnosed 2018 with Parkinson’s disease. since I started the PD-5 treatment my slurred speech and especially the tremors gradually disappeared. it’s has done me a lot of good in terms of balance and ability to walk and get up from chairs. Google ( Uine health centre ) DON’T GIVE UP HOPE!!!
I am very hopeful, Angela, and it’s stories like yours that inspire me. Thanks for reaching out!
Prayers for you, Fred.
Best,
Fig
Still swinging, Bill. Thanks for the well wishes, and hope you’re good.
Lots of people posting, Fred. Prayers, good thoughts and an unbelievable amount of gratitude for what you do daily. Getting older isn’t always a picnic, but as long as we can wrap sandwiches and take ’em to the park, we can still enjoy life. We need you to carry the torch, Fred-you do amazing things every day and we look forward to that continuing for a long time. Whatever this journey brings, you won’t face it alone. We’re grateful for every moment you share with us and look forward to many more stories, and all that you do to keep us on track to success. Stay strong as we all look for a solution to Parkinson’s. Please let us know what we can do to help
It is comments like yours that have truly buoyed me, Dave. One of the positives about going public with this is the support it has surfaced. Thanks to you – and so many others – for takiing the time.
Very sorry to hear about this Fred, but I know you will stay strong through the challenge! Sending positive thoughts and support your way.
I’ll take ’em all, Rick. And congrats to you for getting out of this alive, healthy, and loved. You’ve truly accomplished great things!
I second Rita Wilde’s mention of Larry Gifford. I had also forgotten that Eric O’Brien (who runs the PBRTV site) continues to be open about living with Parkinson’s; he might’ve been initially diagnosed over a decade ago.
Fred,
Prayers and strength for the road ahead. Your positive attitude will take you a long ways towards many more years with excellent quality of life. Thanks for all you do for the radio industry and have done. You’re the best at what you do and I just wanted to convey my thoughts and know that you are much appreciated. Onward and upward.
Dallas Reese
This means a lot, Dallas. Thanks so much for reaching out.
You are being the best you can be. Rock on, sir!
Thanks, Barry!
Thanks for sharing this, Fred. You continue to do what you do best, with a passion. Thinking of you and wishing you the best.
Appreciate you, Leslie. Thanks for reaching out on this.
Thanks for sharing Fred.
You have always inspired me and countless others- now even more. Wishing you all the best!
John, I’ll return the compliment. I always look up to you and appreciate you reaching out here.
Fred, since 1989, when I was a young radio cub, you’ve selflessly supported and advised me along my career path. Thank you. Everybody’s got something is right. I hope you feel some relief by addressing publicly something so personal.
Sharing your experiences with the disease and diagnostic information can help someone who might wonder about their own health, or a loved one’s.
I will keep up with you, and your fight.
Tommy
Thanks for this, Tommy. I can tell you I feel better since “coming out” on this. Glad to have it out in the open. Appreciate you.
So many people on your side. Yes, numbers of us deal with something physical sooner or later. Cancer survivor here. Your intellect is more important than your posture. Wishing you the best.
Dale, I apprecate these thoughts. Thanks so much!
Thank you, Fred, for sharing your personal journey with Parkinson’s. It helps to have so many people who love, respect, and care. You haven’t lost a beat.
Dan, I appreciate those kind words. Thank you.
À votre santé, Fred!
Appreciate that, Steve. It’s been an interesting journey. Hope you’re doing well.
Bless you, Fred. You are so loved in this community. We’ve got your back… and your hand. Godspeed.
Most appreciated, my friend!
For years, I ignored the subtle signs, tremors in my hands, stiffness in my muscles, fatigue I couldn’t explain, and occasional dizziness with ringing in my ears. Gradually, my movements slowed, my balance worsened, and everyday tasks became a struggle. Eventually, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and Ménière’s disease, and my quality of life began to decline rapidly. After five years of searching for answers with no real improvement, I discovered www. EarthCureHerbalClinic .com. Highly hopeful and promising, I decided to try their herbal treatment for Parkinson’s and Ménière’s. Within weeks, the tremors began to ease, the ringing in my ears lessened, and I noticed more flexibility in my joints. After a few months, my stiffness reduced, my energy returned, my dizziness eased, and I was able to move more freely. At my check-up, my doctor was amazed. “Your motor functions have improved significantly, and your symptoms are under control.”Now, I’m living without the constant tremors, stiffness, or balance issues. Thanks to Earth Cure, I’ve regained independence, confidence, and joy in my daily life. For more information, reach out at info @ earthcureherbalclinic. com.
This feels like an ad (to me), but us Parky People are looking for answers and remedies. So, I’ll reserve judgment.
Your hand(s) may shake, but your research is rock solid.
Thank You Fred, for ALL you do for the radio industry!
My husband has Parkinson’s disease, adding PD-5 to his nighttime Parkinson’s meds has completely changed his sleep issues. He slept all day and up all night, we had to hire care nurses. Now using this PD-5 medicine for the last four months and a normal routine he sleeps almost completely through the night and may get up once to use the restroom. It’s improved so much we were able to let go of the night nurses. This medicine also helps a ton with memory. we got the treatment from www. limitlesshealthcenter. co m I am absolutely confident that this program offers a viable solution. it’s not a cure all but it does work, I hope someone find this helpful, We feel very fortunate to have learned about pd-5.
Hi Angela and thanks for your post. we just received the PD-5 medicine and very excited to start Thank you for sharing
Sleep can be a problem. Angela, I will look into this. Thanks for this.