Smiling through Parkinson’s: Unmasking the Journey

Smiling through Parkinson’s: Unmasking the Journey YOPN 47:51

The Young Onset Parkinson’s Network (YOPN) Podcast is thrilled to present Lucy Jung, the CEO of Charco Neurotech (https://charconeurotech.com/)

Charco Neurotech is a medical technology company focused on improving the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Their mission is to bring back smiles to those affected by the condition. Inspired by Professor Charcot’s research on vibratory stimulation, they have developed the CUE1 device in collaboration with people with Parkinson’s. By incorporating diverse skillsets and listening to the needs of the community, they aim to create simple, non-invasive technologies that can alleviate movement symptoms. The company, co-founded by Lucy Jung, values input from individuals with Parkinson’s throughout the development process. Their goal is to provide innovative medical devices and software that enhance the well-being of those living with Parkinson’s.

Michael Quaglia YOPN PODCAST

My name is Michael Quaglia, and I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease at the age of 42 in October 2006. For the next eight years, I worked tirelessly to climb the corporate ladder, hoping to accumulate enough wealth before the symptoms of the disease forced me into early retirement. Looking back, I wish I had made different choices.

In 2014, I stumbled upon two articles that changed the course of my life. The first was a study by the Cleveland Clinic, which found that "forced exercise" could significantly improve Parkinson's symptoms. The second was a video made by a small non-profit organization called Rock Steady Boxing, which demonstrated the benefits of non-contact boxing for people with Parkinson's.

Inspired by the potential benefits of exercise and boxing for Parkinson's patients, I dedicated my life to helping others and myself fight back against the symptoms of the disease. As a result, I have become an advocate for people with Parkinson's and an active member of the Parkinson's community.

To help get the word out in 2016 I started a Podcast "2 Mikes" with a friend Mike Achin. Seven years later we're sponsored by the Young Onset Parkinson's Network, we have numerous cohosts and our content resonates with the PD community.

Before my diagnosis, I worked as a Sales Manager for Engineering staffing agencies, but my journey with Parkinson's has led me down a different path, one in which I find fulfillment and purpose in making a positive impact on the lives of others.