Parkinson’s disease has made it to the big screen. Dr. Deborah J. Fryer, Ph.D., has written, produced, and directed Shaken, Journey into the Mind of a Parkinson’s Patient for Lila Films, Inc. (2007).
The 30-minute film follows Paul Schroder’s journey after he is diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 33. Over the course of 10 years, Schroder took 21 pills per day to cope with the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s.
In the film, Schroder is forced to move back in with his parents because of his impaired mobility. His hopes for a career, wife, and children are lost. He loses the ability to control his body, and even to smile.
At this point in his life, he decides to pursue Deep Brain Stimulation. The documentary guides us through Schroder’s MRI, and the process of implanting electrodes in his brain and a neurotransmitter underneath his collarbone.
The outcome of the surgery is bittersweet. Paul regains many of the functions that he lost to the disease, including his ability to smile. However, he develops a scalp infection and the electrodes must be removed. Once again, Schroder is afflicted with stiffness and tremors. It is a poignant story that sheds light on the challenges of dealing with Parkinson’s disease.
Be sure to stay tuned for a longer version of this award winning documentary in the future as Dr. Fryer follows Schroder’s second DBS surgery. If you would like to order copies of the DVD, please order online at: www.lilafilms.com or call (303) 442-1966.