I'm Not Dead Yet!

Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
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  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A close look at an extraordinary life with Parkinson's Disease. Quirky and irreverent hosts Judy & Travis take a look at this most tragic of events: life with an incurable disease and why it’s important to declare that I'm Not Dead Yet! Start making the changes to get you the best quality of life possible. Updates (usually) every other Monday.

  1. 09/27/2025

    EP-133 Wheels, Words, and Willpower

    When Parkinson's disease progression begins to steal your voice and your stability, what options remain? Travis opens up about a frightening downward spiral that left him falling repeatedly and struggling to communicate - the very foundation of his identity and independence. "If I can't talk to you and have you understand me, then I am trapped and I'm no different than somebody locked in a cage," Travis shares, revealing the profound isolation that comes when Parkinson's affects speech. After years of managing symptoms with medication and Deep Brain Stimulation, Travis found himself facing a new reality: needing an electric wheelchair and watching as waiters began addressing his questions to his partner instead of him. The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Travis reveals his experience with Vyalevⓡ, a recently FDA-approved subcutaneous delivery system for carbidopa-levodopa that doesn't require the permanent abdominal port of earlier systems. Just days into this new treatment, Travis describes subtle but meaningful improvements that allowed him to hike at 10,000 feet elevation when he'd previously struggled to take out the trash without falling. This raw, unfiltered discussion explores the emotional impact of disease progression, the difficult decisions about assistive devices, and the constant search for solutions that preserve dignity and independence. Travis's philosophy resonates throughout: "It's better to be out there doing something cool than looking like you're doing something cool, but not actually" - a powerful reminder that living fully sometimes means embracing the tools that enable participation, even when they challenge our self-image. Join us for this deeply personal exploration of finding hope when standing at the edge of what feels like a cliff, and stay tuned for part two where we'll continue the conversation about this promising treatment option. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    43 min

  2. 09/27/2025 · BONUS

    EP-134 The Unexpected Gift of New Speech PART 2/2

    Something extraordinary has happened. After five days on a new medication, Travis's speech has transformed dramatically. Gone are the long pauses, the facial dystonia, and the whisper-quiet voice that made mountain climbs particularly challenging. Listeners familiar with Travis's speech patterns will immediately notice the difference – and no, we haven't edited a thing. This transformation highlights a fascinating psychological phenomenon Travis has observed throughout his Parkinson's journey. People form mental images of who we are that become remarkably resistant to change. "People remember you as a certain way, and it takes them a really long time and a lot of information to update that idea of who you are," Travis explains. This creates a strange disconnect when someone experiences significant physical changes, as others struggle to reconcile their established mental picture with the person's current reality. Friends who've known Travis for years sometimes offer help when he doesn't need it, while missing moments when assistance is genuinely required. While this speech improvement represents a potentially significant breakthrough, both hosts maintain a grounded perspective. "These results may not last, and they may improve or they may get worse," Travis acknowledges. There are "no guarantees, no promises that it will stay like this." Yet the possibility that this improvement might continue offers hope – perhaps that wheelchair will stay collecting dust in the corner. We're documenting this "personal clinical trial" in real-time through upcoming episodes, allowing listeners to witness this journey as it unfolds. Don't miss our upcoming two-part series with neuropsychologist Dr. Dov Gold, where we'll dive deep into stress, relationships, and more aspects of living with Parkinson's. Subscribe now to follow this remarkable journey and join our conversation about living an extraordinary life with extraordinary circumstances. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    13 min

  3. 08/15/2025

    EP-132 Rebuilding Life After Loss: Moving Houses, Travel Adventures, and Medical Innovations

    Fire took everything Travis owned in just 15 minutes. With his Parkinson's disease symptoms flaring from stress, he faced the seemingly impossible task of rebuilding a life from scratch while his body fought against him. This raw, powerful episode explores the unexpected challenges that emerged when Travis had to relocate to a new house in just four days—a home that, while larger, presents accessibility nightmares with its multiple levels and problematic doorways. Travis takes us on his recent whirlwind journey, from navigating airport security with specialized photography equipment to attending a friend's wedding in upstate New York. The conversation reveals how even routine travel becomes a logistical puzzle when managing a progressive neurological condition, yet Travis refuses to let these obstacles limit his experiences. Hope shines through as Travis shares exciting news about a potential game-changer in his treatment plan. He's been fast-tracked for the innovative Vyalev Pump system—a subcutaneous infusion device similar to an insulin pump that provides continuous medication. This development offers a glimpse into how medical innovation continues to improve quality of life for those with Parkinson's. The most touching moments come when Travis articulates the unique grief of losing personal possessions in the fire. "It's not mourning the stuff," he explains, "it's mourning the experience you had with that stuff." His perspective offers profound insight into the emotional dimensions of loss that extend far beyond material value. Travis's story is a masterclass in resilience—not because he never struggles, but because he continues forward despite overwhelming circumstances. His determination to rebuild his photography archive symbolizes his broader approach to life: acknowledging loss while refusing to be defined by it. Listen now and discover how extraordinary circumstances can reveal extraordinary strength. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    29 min

  4. 07/07/2025

    EP-131 Rollercoaster Moments: How a 12-Year-Old Named Evie Sees Parkinson's

    When 12-year-old Evie chose to make Parkinson's disease awareness part of her Bat Mitzvah project, she opened a window into how this condition affects not just patients, but entire families across generations. Her grandfather's diagnosis four years ago became a pivotal moment for their family, but not in the way you might expect. What emerges in this candid conversation is a refreshing perspective on family communication during health challenges. While many families shield children from difficult medical realities, Evie's family took a different approach. They shared the diagnosis immediately, creating space for questions, conversations, and ultimately, a stronger bond between Evie and her grandfather. "I feel like I can talk to him about it more than I could when I was younger," she explains, demonstrating how transparency has allowed their relationship to deepen rather than become strained. The wisdom Evie shares belies her young age, particularly when she describes her philosophy on chronic illness: "Diseases are sometimes like roller coasters. You sometimes will go up and be happy, but you don't know when it can go down." This insightful metaphor captures the unpredictable nature of Parkinson's while maintaining space for joy and connection. Her mother Leslie complements this perspective by highlighting how her father's proactive approach to managing his symptoms through specialized exercise, his positive outlook, and his willingness to maintain normal family activities like travel has created a template for resilience. For families navigating similar terrain, this episode offers both practical insights and emotional reassurance. The conversation touches on finding community support, maintaining normality amid health challenges, and the power of intergenerational communication. Most importantly, it demonstrates that a diagnosis doesn't have to define a person or their relationships. As Evie simply yet powerfully states, "Parkinson's is a disease, but it also shouldn't define somebody." Listen, share, and join our community of supporters by subscribing and following our work at PCLA. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    30 min

  5. 06/24/2025

    EP-130 The Racquetball Champion with Parkinson's

    Robert Campuzano refuses to let Parkinson's disease define his life. Diagnosed at age 56, this former sales professional transformed what could have been devastating news into a remarkable journey of resilience and joy. The moment of diagnosis hit like "a shot in the stomach." Robert found himself driving aimlessly, struggling to process what this would mean for his active lifestyle. But rather than surrendering to despair, he methodically evaluated what he could keep and what he might need to give up. While motorcycle riding had to go due to decreased reaction times, Robert was determined to continue playing competitive racquetball—a sport he'd enjoyed for nearly 30 years. Today, Robert not only plays racquetball but dominates the court, beating competitors who are stunned to learn about his diagnosis. "These guys are in their 60s and late 50s, shaking my hand and saying 'watching you play, it's amazing that you're here all the time and kicking butt,'" Robert shares with quiet pride. His presence challenges common perceptions about Parkinson's, as people frequently ask him, "Are you sure you have Parkinson's? I can't see it." His approach to living with Parkinson's combines the goal-setting mindset that served him well in sales with a keen awareness of his body's signals. "Read your body and let your body tell you what you're doing right or wrong," he advises. "If I'm too tired, I stop, I'm going to take a nap." This balanced perspective, along with finding the right doctor and joining support groups, forms the foundation of his success. Robert's story isn't just about maintaining an extraordinary life despite extraordinary circumstances—it's about becoming stronger through the challenge. As he puts it, "You can take the low road or the high road. I'm going to find the best person I can be." His parting advice? "Just keep smiling out there. When you're smiling, people notice good things about you." Ready to transform your own perspective on Parkinson's or any life challenge? Listen to Robert's full story and discover how adversity might reveal strengths you never knew you had. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    35 min

  6. 03/20/2025

    EP - 129 The Parkinson's Club: Finding Strength in Struggle

    Simon's voice carries the weight of a decade battling Parkinson's disease as he shares his raw, unfiltered experience with dystonia – one of the condition's most debilitating manifestations. Despite undergoing deep brain stimulation surgery twice, Simon continues to struggle with both the physical torment of involuntary muscle contractions and the emotional burden of depression and apathy that often accompany Parkinson's. The conversation takes a profound turn when Simon contrasts his journey with co-host Travis Robinson's more resilient approach. "Travis is the blitzkrieg of Parkinson's patients," Simon remarks with admiration, describing Travis's "cake or death" philosophy of pushing through difficulties. This striking juxtaposition highlights a crucial truth rarely discussed in chronic illness narratives: there's no single "right" way to face Parkinson's disease. What makes this episode particularly valuable is its unflinching examination of the darker aspects of living with Parkinson's. Simon courageously admits, "I'm not winning the battle," giving voice to countless others who feel similarly overwhelmed but lack the platform to express it. The hosts thoughtfully explore how the medical community, despite their expertise, still grapples with Parkinson's complexity. As Simon notes, "Even the movement disorder specialists don't know that much... their guesses are just far more educated than ours." The conversation ultimately builds toward a powerful message of community and connection. Whether through support groups, writing (Simon will be contributing a column called "Simon Says" to the PCLA website), or honest conversations like this one, breaking isolation proves essential. As Judy beautifully summarizes: "We're doing it collectively. If we stand together, we can make changes." Ready to hear more unfiltered conversations about living with Parkinson's? Subscribe to our podcast and join our community at PCLA.org where you'll find resources, support groups, and others walking similar paths. Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    39 min

  7. 02/01/2025

    EP-128 New Beginnings and Community Connections

    Travis and Judy discuss navigating life’s challenges, focusing on resilience and preparedness in the wake of a devastating fire. They share personal stories of loss, emotional coping strategies, and the importance of community support.  • Importance of resilience in facing trauma  • Preparations for unexpected emergencies  • Emotional toll of loss and community impact  • New partnership with Parkinson's Community Los Angeles  • Suggestions for emergency planning and triaging possessions  • Key takeaways for listeners in managing crises Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    23 min

  8. 01/11/2025

    EP-127 Rising from the Ashes: Our Journey Through Loss, Resilience, and Community Support

    What would you save if a fire threatened to consume everything you hold dear? Join me, Travis Robinson, alongside my co-host Judy Yarris, as we recount the harrowing moments when flames forced Sarah and me from our home in Altadena. From the heart-wrenching choices on what to rescue—my priceless photography gear and Sarah's cherished handmade furniture—to navigating the chaos of evacuation, our story is one of loss, resilience, and gratitude. With Judy's steadfast support, we also tackle the practical challenges that arise, like securing medication and documenting losses for insurance, and find solace in the immense outpouring of support from our community. As we navigate this challenging chapter of our lives, we’re overwhelmed by the love and assistance we’ve received from friends both near and far. In this episode, we shine a light on the incredible solidarity that has uplifted us, driven by the very connections we have nurtured through our work with individuals living with Parkinson's. A GoFundMe page stands as a testament to this collective kindness, rallying contributions to help us rebuild. Judy and I share our profound gratitude and reflect on how the spirit of giving and solidarity can help us all rise from the ashes, stronger and more united than ever. LINK To GFM page: https://gofund.me/e3c2cee4 Co-hosts: Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson www.INDYpodcast.net

    16 min
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5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

A close look at an extraordinary life with Parkinson's Disease. Quirky and irreverent hosts Judy & Travis take a look at this most tragic of events: life with an incurable disease and why it’s important to declare that I'm Not Dead Yet! Start making the changes to get you the best quality of life possible. Updates (usually) every other Monday.

Information

  • Creator
    Judy Yaras & Travis Robinson
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    136
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 I'm Not Dead Yet!
  • Show Website
    I'm Not Dead Yet!