For Stuart, movement has always been a big part of his life. As a physical therapist, athlete, coach, and father, staying active wasn’t just something he did, it was who he was.
When Stuart was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 48, the news was quite difficult to process. As someone who dedicated his career to helping others move better, facing his own movement challenges felt particularly personal. But true to his philosophy “movement is health”, Stuart committed to staying as active and positive as possible.
Today, Stuart continues to live life on the move. He still plays ice hockey several times a week, runs regularly, and coaches his son’s hockey team. While he’s had to adjust his routines over time, his commitment to pushing forward remains stronger than ever.
Finding the Right Treatment for his Lifestyle
After his diagnosis, Stuart spent time learning from others in the PD community and speaking with specialists to better understand his options. His journey with treatment began with adjustments along the way to find the right medication and support for his active lifestyle.
Earlier this year, Stuart started treatment with CREXONT (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules as prescribed by his neurologist. He and his healthcare team worked together to determine a dosing schedule that fit his needs, something he says has helped him continue doing what he loves, like playing hockey, staying active, and running his physical therapy practice.
For Stuart, finding a treatment plan that helped support his goals has been a key part of managing his PD. He emphasizes that staying in close communication with his healthcare providers made a big difference in tailoring his plan to his lifestyle.
Since starting on CREXONT, Stuart has felt a renewed sense of control over his day. He describes experiencing more predictable “On” time, allowing him to plan his activities with greater confidence whether it’s leading therapy sessions at his practiceor joining his son’s hockey practices without worrying about unexpected interruptions from “Off” periods.
“Before, I sometimes felt like Parkinson’s was dictating my schedule,” Stuart shared. “Now, with CREXONT, I feel like I’m back in the driver’s seat.”
Having a treatment that offers extended symptom control has not only helped Stuart physically, but also it has strengthened his emotional resilience, too. With better management of his symptoms, Stuart says he’s able to stay focused on what matters most: his family, his patients, and his community.
Stuart often tells his patients that goals don’t disappear with a diagnosis, rather they just evolve. He credits CREXONT with helping him not just “get through the day,” but actively pursue his passions. Whether it’s helping a patient take their first steps post-surgery, skating side-by-side with his son, or organizing local fitness events for the PD community, Stuart sees each achievement as a victory against Parkinson’s.
A New Perspective on Movement
Stuart’s diagnosis also deepened his appreciation for his work as a physical therapist. It reminded him how important it is to focus not just on recovery, but on helping people continue doing what they love for as long as possible.” Sometimes, it’s not about getting back to where you were, it’s about maintaining, adapting, and still moving forward,” Stuart shared.
He believes staying physically and socially active has been crucial. Whether it’s a pickup game of hockey or a morning run, these activities keep him both physically and mentally strong.
Stuart continues to advocate for hope and empowerment among people living with Parkinson’s disease. “CREXONT has given me the flexibility to keep living my life the way I want to,” Stuart says. “I’m still coaching. I’m still playing. I’m still moving forward.”
Sharing His Story to Inspire Others
Stuart made the personal decision to be open about his diagnosis not only with his family and friends, but also with his patients. He even wrote a letter to his community, hoping his story could help someone else who might be struggling.
He acknowledges that every person’s PD journey is different, but believes that the right treatment combined with a mindset of persistence and optimism can make a meaningful difference. “It’s about showing that you can keep moving, even when things get tough,” he says. “If telling my story helps even one person feel more hopeful, it’s worth it.”
Today, Stuart encourages others living with Parkinson’s to stay hopeful, stay active, and stay connected. His advice? Believe in your ability to adapt, embrace the good days, and don’t let challenges define you.
As he puts it, “This disease will affect you, but you can also have an effect on it.”
Stuart’s experience with CREXONT is his own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some people, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Always speak with your doctor to determine if CREXONT may be right for you. Only a healthcare provider can assess your condition and guide you to the appropriate treatment options.
