Crexont HCP

Derek’s care partner journey: Parkinson’s, partnership, and the power of the right treatment

admin — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 16:46:34 +0000

When Sam and I first reconnected after meeting in college, I was drawn in by her spark, her humor, her passion, and her ability to light up a room. What I didn’t realize at the time was the incredible strength behind that spark, and how deeply I would come to admire it in the years ahead.

Sam was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s disease at 21, right around the time most people are figuring out their future. For Sam, her world shifted almost overnight. She went from being an energetic college student to someone facing a chronic diagnosis typically associated with people decades older. That contrast was hard not just for her, but for everyone who loves her. And as her partner, it’s been both a challenge and a privilege to walk this road beside her.

In the beginning, Sam tried to keep her diagnosis private. I think it was her way of protecting herself and others. Her family even shielded the news during a Thanksgiving gathering shortly after she was diagnosed. She just wasn’t ready to share it, and that’s okay. Everyone processes differently. Over time though, Sam began opening up, slowly at first. I watched her turn her experience into advocacy and connection, and in that, she’s inspired me and so many others.

When we got married in 2018, Sam’s father had previously written a song and then we surprised him by using it as their father-daughter dance on the day of the wedding. The lyrics talked about his wish to take the diagnosis away and his hopes for her future. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room. That moment stays with me, because as her husband, I’ve had the same wish more times than I can count.

When we moved from Wisconsin to Florida, the responsibility of caregiving shifted more fully to me. Sam’s parents had always played a big role in her care, and stepping into the caregiver role without a support system in a new city came with a lot of emotions: uncertainty, pressure, and honestly, fear. I didn’t want to just help Sam; I wanted her to thrive. That meant doing my own research, asking questions, finding the right doctors, helping advocate for her in appointments, and staying open to different treatment options.

Finding the right neurologist made a world of difference. We finally found a movement disorder specialist who really took the time to understand Sam and helped reset her entire treatment plan, starting fresh after years of trial and error. At one point, Sam was taking immediate release carbidopa/levodopa that caused tough side effects for her. It wasn’t until we got to Florida that things began to feel more stable.

“Sam’s story is still unfolding. And every chapter reminds me of how

strong, funny, and brilliant she is. Parkinson’s doesn’t define her; it’s

just one part of our story. Together, we’re writing the rest.”

In late 2024, her doctor introduced us to a different treatment: CREXONT (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules. He explained that it could possibly work better for our lifestyle with fewer doses per day. That immediately piqued our interest. We were curious, and cautiously hopeful.

Sam began CREXONT that December, and we’ve been grateful for how it fits into her routine. She’s on the lowest dose, taking it twice a day, morning and night. While she’s noticed an increase in dyskinesia shortly after taking it, her doctor is monitoring and helping manage that. What we both appreciate most is the simplicity of her dosing regimen, less medicine means fewer reminders, fewer interruptions to our day, and more time just living.

It might sound small, but for couples managing a chronic illness, those little things can feel huge.

We’ve also been fortunate that access to medication for us hasn’t been an issue. Sam’s enrolled in the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (MPPP), and that has significantly eased the cost burden for us by capping monthly payments and smoothing them out over the course of the year. Between navigating treatment and all of life’s other expenses, that kind of support truly matters.

Outside of treatment, Sam continues to be a force. She takes weekly dance classes and participates in advocacy efforts with organizations like the Parkinson’s Foundation and The Michael J. Fox Foundation. She even traveled to Capitol Hill to speak about Parkinson’s. That’s who Sam is, she takes every challenge and turns it into something that lifts others up.

“As her husband and care partner, I’ve learned so much. I’ve learned

how important it is to keep looking for answers, to keep asking

questions, to advocate not just for Sam, but for our relationship, our

quality of life, and our future.”

To anyone else navigating life as a care partner, my advice is this: don’t settle. If something isn’t working, whether it’s a doctor, a medication, or a routine, keep looking. Keep advocating. The right support system can change everything. And when you find a treatment plan that fits, like we did with CREXONT, it can bring not just emotional relief, but peace of mind.

Sam and Derek’s experience with CREXONT is their 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.

More stories from real patients

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Derek’s care partner journey: Parkinson’s, partnership, and the power of the right treatment appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:56 +0000

For more than two decades, Dr. John Morgan sat across from Parkinson’s patients guiding them through diagnoses, treatment options, and the emotional toll the disease can take. As a neurologist and movement disorder specialist, he had seen it all from early-stage tremors, mid-stage medication adjustments, and the complex progression of symptoms that often unfold over many years.

But he never expected to become one of those patients himself.

From clinical expertise to personal experience

Dr. Morgan’s journey into neurology began with a fascination for how the brain works, how it develops and grows, how it adapts to insults, and how it breaks down. After studying developmental neuroscience, he knew he wanted to continue his career furthering his understanding of the brain’s mysteries. “Neurology was such an attractive field because I could see the evidence of disease on my examination and testing. Neuroanatomy taught me how to localize where the problem was in the nervous system.” he explained. “Tests such as a spinal tap, a DAT scan or MRI, are there to help me confirm what I am seeing clinically. It wasn’t guesswork.”

During medical school, he met a mentor who introduced him to the field of movement disorders, Dr. Kapil Sethi. That relationship shaped his career, eventually leading Dr. Morgan back to Georgia to help build a specialty clinic.

He would go on to care for over a thousand Parkinson’s patients over the next two decades, many of whom he helped treat for many years. Still, nothing fully prepared him for the moment he became the patient.

It started with something small, a subtle foot tremor. “At first, I thought I was just jiggling my right leg out of habit. But it kept going after I stopped. I was dragging my foot a little. Typing got slower in my right hand. And I just knew.” An informal visit with Dr. Sethi confirmed what he suspected. He had Parkinson’s.

Dr. Morgan was diagnosed in 2020. His initial response was matter of fact “This sucks. But I wasn’t afraid. I’ve lived with this disease for over 20 years through my patients. I knew what I was facing.”

Being a doctor gave him clarity. Being a patient gave him empathy.

He soon began to understand Parkinson’s in a whole new way, not just clinically, but physically and emotionally. Turning over in bed became harder. Parkinson’s affected how he gripped his tennis racket and his ability to hit topspin. He now uses speech-to-text tools and most recently DAX Copilot using AI in the patient/care partner encounter improving his speed and accuracy of interactions in his office.

“There are things you don’t notice until you live them. Like how hard it is to turn over in bed, or how stiff your whole body can feel when you wake up. It’s not just weakness. It’s like moving in a weighted suit.”

Despite his symptoms, Dr. Morgan continues to live an incredibly full life. He plays tennis regularly with a group of older players, many of whom were college-level athletes. He fishes, hikes, and recently repelled for the first time in his life down an 80-foot rock face using his non-dominant hand. He jokes that he wasn’t thrilled, but he made it down safely. “I lived,” he laughed. “Barely.”

“You’ve got Parkinson’s, but it doesn’t have you.”

When Dr. Morgan shares his diagnosis with patients, especially younger or newly diagnosed individuals, it changes everything.

“I tell them, ‘I’ve had Parkinson’s for five years. Do I look okay to you?’ And they say, ‘Yeah, you do.’ That moment gives people hope. They realize this isn’t the end of their story. It’s just the next chapter.”

His philosophy is simple but powerful—focus on what you can do, not what you can’t. And surround yourself with people who help you stay positive.

He also urges patients to bring loved ones into the process early. “You need a support system. And you need to be careful not to overwhelm yourself or them. Read just enough. Learn about your symptoms. Don’t obsess over every ‘what if.’ Live your life.”

The right treatment for his life

One of the most challenging parts of Parkinson’s for many patients is the complexity of medication. Dr. Morgan sees it firsthand in his clinic. So, when it came time to choose his own therapy, he knew exactly where he stood.

“I never used immediate-release carbidopa/levodopa. As a doctor, I knew how hard that schedule of taking medicine 3–5 times per day could be. So I started with a once-daily MAO-B inhibitor, a once-daily extended-release dopamine agonist and then added RYTARY®.”

Despite his clinical discipline, the demands of a packed schedule made adherence difficult. “I was missing doses or late taking them. When an extended-release version of carbidopa-levodopa came to market, I knew that drug, “CREXONT”, was for me. That’s when he and his care team decided to switch to CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules.

“CREXONT gave me a smooth experience. It’s helped me stay focused on my life, not my medication.”

Today, Dr. Morgan takes CREXONT and continues working full-time, splitting his week between his academic medical center clinic, a local VA hospital, and a satellite location between Augusta and Atlanta. He sees 40–50 patients a week and makes time to travel with his wife and family, enjoy his mountain getaway, and dive into his favorite pastime, tennis.

A life that’s still full

Whether he’s spending time with family, collecting old comic books, studying the stock market, attending plays and concerts, or playing tennis, Dr Morgan is all in.

“Slowness is real. But so is joy. So is purpose.”

He reminds his patients and himself that Parkinson’s may change how you move, but it doesn’t define who you are.

“You may have Parkinson’s, but it doesn’t have you. And when you truly believe that, everything changes.”

Dr Morgan’s story is one of courage, clinical wisdom, and personal growth. It’s a reminder to patients everywhere that with the right mindset, the right treatment, and the right support, you don’t have to lose yourself in the diagnosis.

You can keep living. You can keep doing what you love. And you can still be you.

Dr. Morgan is a paid consultant for Amneal Pharmaceuticals. His 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.

More stories from real patients

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:56 +0000

Gasper has always believed in the value of hard work. For over 40 years, he ran his own automotive business, often putting in long days and seven-day work weeks. “I was a hustler,” he says with a smile. “I worked hard, and I enjoyed it.” That drive never left him, not after selling the business or being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the summer of 2022.

Gasper’s days look a little different after his diagnosis, but his determination to make every day count and his love for his family is strong. He starts most mornings with either going to church or a combination of physical, occupational, or speech therapy. He keeps himself busy, not just for his own wellbeing, but because it brings him joy to stay connected with others in his community.

“I do best in a crowd,” he says. “And my family makes sure I stay busy.” That family includes three siblings, two grandchildren, and two children including his daughter, Dr Jill Giordano Farmer, DO, who is also his Movement Disorder Specialist. The line between family and clinical care can be delicate, but Dr Farmer manages it with empathy and purpose.

“She’s amazing,” Gasper says proudly. “She thinks I can’t take care of myself, but I always tell her I can, as long as I listen to her.”

Dr Farmer plays a unique dual role, combining clinical experience with an intimate understanding of her father’s personality, habits, and needs. “It’s not just about prescribing medication,” she says. “It’s about walking alongside someone you love through every stage. I’m his doctor, but I’m also his daughter, and I want to help make each day a little easier for him.”

She’s the one who first noticed early signs of Parkinson’s. At first, it was thought to be a “trick knee,” but Dr Farmer noticed changes in his voice, posture, and sleep. Eventually, the diagnosis became clear. “I didn’t look it up,” Gasper says. “I read the pamphlets the doctor gave me and listened to my daughter.”

Dr Farmer’s approach was never to overwhelm him with information. Instead, she met him where he was, offering resources only when he was ready. “A lot of this was buffered by my late wife,” Gasper reflects. “She’d filter the info before I was ready to hear it.”

He began treatment gradually, trying different approaches like immediate-release carbidopa/levodopa with his care team, while also staying consistent with exercise, therapy, and family support.

As his Parkinson’s progressed, Gasper began struggling and had difficulty maintaining his medication routine. That’s when Dr Farmer introduced him to CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules, 70 mg/280 mg three times per day.

With this new treatment in place, Gasper found more consistency in his days, and felt more alert and less fatigued. He jokes that he’s “not too good” with his phone, so he keeps his pills out where he can see them to help remember to take them.

With CREXONT, Gasper feels more like himself again; present, capable, and connected to the life he cherishes. What matters most to Gasper is feeling present and capable of doing the things he loves, like spending time with his grandchildren, one of whom reminds him of his late wife, attending church, and looking forward to his upcoming 80th birthday celebration in Aruba with the entire family. CREXONT has helped him reclaim those moments by offering more consistency in his days.

“If I can help somebody even an inch and make their life better, I hit a home run. That’s it,” he says of sharing his story with Parkinson’s and his experience taking CREXONT.

For Dr Farmer, the experience of being both physician and daughter has only deepened her passion for helping others. “When you have a successful outcome in treatment, you want to give hope. That there are options. That you’re not alone.”

She often tells her own patients about Gasper’s experience, not to prescribe a one-size-fits-all solution, but to make the path forward feel a little more real and less intimidating. “When doctors are asked, ‘What would you do for your own family?’ this is what I chose for mine,” says Dr Farmer.

Gasper doesn’t like to talk much about his diagnosis outside the family, not because he’s ashamed, but because he doesn’t want people to look at him differently. Still, he chooses to share his story with the hope that it might help someone else feel just a little more understood.

“I don’t know what the future holds,” he says honestly. “But I’m working on it now. And I’m lucky to have people beside me.”

Gasper’s experience with CREXONT is his own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey

Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:56 +0000

Laura’s journey with Parkinson’s began long before she could put a name on it. Some of its many and diverse symptoms popped up occasionally years before her diagnosis—freezing mid-stride while crossing a busy avenue; sobbing for no reason during a meeting with a client; walking with her right forearm stuck halfway up, as if ready to shake hands. But these manifestations were so diverse that it took many doctors and two surgeries to figure out. When she finally received her Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2014, it was a moment of both shock and clarity.

“I remember calling my uncle Rodrigo, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1981, for advice. His words still guide and give me comfort: ‘Laura, think of it as a pesky tenant you can’t evict. It’s troublesome, but you can learn to live with it.’”

Living with Parkinson’s meant adapting, but Laura wasn’t someone who saw adaptation as defeat, but as a way forward. With a background in literature, advertising, and public relations, she began using design as a tool to navigate what her new normal looked like. She sketched out visual guides, timelines of her symptoms, color-coded medication trackers, and drawings that captured the emotional toll of Parkinson’s on her life. These weren’t just for her, they became resources for others in her support group.

Still, one of the biggest challenges she faced was medication management. For years, Laura was taking immediate-release medications on a strict schedule. It dominated her day. Every meal and activity had to be planned.

“It felt like I was living by a stopwatch,” she said. “It created a kind of mental noise that never stopped.”

Over time, she began to feel like she was managing her medication more than she was managing her disease.

That changed when she started CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules. Laura was immediately interested in the idea of a long-acting formulation. She knew the science. She’d tracked her own response patterns in detail. And she was ready for something that might offer more stability.

“I remember thinking, ‘Could this actually free me from the schedule stopwatch?’ And it has, more than I expected.”

With CREXONT, Laura felt like her days started to flow more naturally again. Instead of constantly anticipating her next dose, she began moving through her routine with more confidence. The extended-release formulation gave her stretches of “Good On” time, which is when your medicine is working well, and you aren’t experiencing symptoms. It also means you’re not having those movements you can’t control, called dyskinesia, which include twitches, jerks, and twisting motions. Or, if you are experiencing them, they’re not affecting your daily activities.

“I’m still me,” she said. “But now I’m not constantly interrupted. I can have breakfast with my husband and not immediately check the clock. I can walk outside without thinking about how long I have before I need another pill. It’s freed up space, not just in my schedule, but in my mind.”

She’s returned to things she loves, including dancing, painting, and traveling. Recently, she took a cruise with her husband and is planning another with her great grandchildren. She will be packing her CREXONT pill containers, which she has marked with color-coded stickers to match her personalized schedule.

As a support group leader, Laura often shares her experience with CREXONT as an example of how finding the right treatment for you can bring back ease, flow, and confidence.

“Parkinson’s doesn’t stop me from being myself. If anything, it’s made me more intentional. CREXONT has helped me live with more rhythm. I feel like I’ve found my pace again.”

When she’s not hosting group discussions or traveling, Laura is building a toolkit she hopes to publish one day. It is a visual diary and planning system for others living with Parkinson’s, complete with illustrations, symptom journals, and daily affirmations.

“I tell people, ‘Yes, this is hard but it’s not the end of your story. There’s still music. There’s still laughter. There’s still dancing, however jerky.’ And sometimes they smile back and try to enjoy the journey.”

Laura’s experience with CREXONT is her own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety.  Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey

Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s

Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Laura’s story: Redefining life with Parkinson’s appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:18 +0000

When Lori was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in her mid-50s, it wasn’t unfamiliar territory. Her mother, uncle, and brother had all lived with PD, and Lori had served as a caregiver for both her mother and brother during their most challenging years. But when it became her own reality, the path ahead still felt uncertain.

Born and raised on a farm in New York State, Lori developed a strong sense of independence and resilience early in life. At 21, she became a mom, later building a fulfilling career in hospital administration, software development, and the travel industry. She’s always been someone who thrives when she’s creating—whether that’s designing her wardrobe, volunteering at boxing training sessions, or making people feel seen and heard.

Her hobbies are just as dynamic as her professional life was: boxing three times a week, volunteering at clinics for people with disabilities, walking in senior games, and even participating in triathlons and Disney marathons for friends and causes she loves. She’s also an active patient advocate and speaker with several Parkinson’s organizations, sharing her time and voice to raise awareness and inspire others to stay involved and optimistic.

But despite her positivity, Parkinson’s brought real challenges. Lori struggled with the burden of frequent dosing and meal coordination while on immediate-release medications. Dyskinesia, blood pressure fluctuations, and energy dips began to interfere with the lifestyle she loved so much. For a time, she worried that independent living might become harder to manage.

That changed when Lori read about CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules. She brought it up to her care team and began treatment in November 2024. Since then, she says she’s noticed a real difference—not just in how she feels physically, but in how her days flow. “Before, I felt like I was constantly fighting for control,” she shares. “Now, I have the freedom to focus on the things I enjoy again—sewing, getting outside, helping others.”

Today, Lori takes CREXONT four times a day. The transition has allowed her to step away from the rigid schedule she was once tied to, and she expressed that her symptoms have become more manageable. She shared that she feels like her sleep patterns are more consistent, her mobility has improved, and most importantly, she feels more like herself again.

“I’ve always been positive and upbeat—it killed me to say I didn’t feel good,” Lori says. “These days, I feel more comfortable and more like myself in my routine.”

She’s especially passionate about helping others with PD know they’re not alone. Lori encourages patients to seek out support programs from the PD community, stay informed, and advocate for themselves and others. Whether she’s organizing a walk, testifying on environmental policy, or talking to her local mayor about pesticide use in public spaces, she’s always working to make things better—for herself and for the PD community at large.

“Even when you feel like you can’t change everything, you can always reach someone,” she says. “That’s what keeps me going.”

Lori’s experience with CREXONT is her own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s

Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s

Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Meet Lori: Finding freedom and balance in the Parkinson’s journey appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s

admin — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 19:05:24 +0000

Jeffrey has always approached life with a good sense of humor and an unwavering dedication to helping others in his community. As a longtime chiropractor and professor, he’s passionate about connecting with students, encouraging empathy and compassion and reminding them that every patient is more than just a diagnosis.

“I tell my students that you’re not treating a disease, you’re treating a person, trying to live their life. That perspective matters.”

Jeffrey’s story took a personal turn in his early 60s when he began experiencing unexplained tremors and issues with coordination and non-motor signs. At first, he didn’t acknowledge or recognize the signs. Like many people and some doctors unfamiliar with Parkinson’s disease (PD), they couldn’t put it all together.

But after a series of tests and visits with his neurologist, he finally received a diagnosis: Parkinson’s disease. “I went through all the stages of grief. Anger. Denial. I remember thinking, ‘Why me?’” Jeffrey recalls. “But after some time, I got into the mindset of, ‘Put one foot in front of the other and just live.’”

As a self-described perfectionist, Jeffrey noticed how PD started impacting his day-to-day life, particularly his energy and mood. Teaching, which was once a joy for him, became a struggle. He felt he wasn’t himself with his students. That’s when he knew something had to change.

After exploring a few different treatment options, Jeffrey and his doctor decided it was time to try a new approach. In February, with support from his care team to navigate access, he began taking CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules, 70 mg/280 mg carbidopa/levodopa three times per day. Within weeks, he noticed changes in how he moved around his home, especially his walking and arm swing.

Today, as an avid bowler, he competes several times a week with a group of friends to socialize and hone his skills. And he continues to lean on the love and support of his wife of 35 years, Yvonne. “I’m fortunate to have her by my side. I don’t know if I could do it alone,” he says.

Jeffrey knows that Parkinson’s isn’t something you choose, but how you respond to it is. His story is one of self-awareness, strength, and a desire to keep doing the things that make him feel most like himself.

When asked why he wanted to share his story, Jeffrey shared “I would hate to go back and start all over. This works for me, and that means everything.”

Jeffrey’s experience with CREXONT is his own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s

Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease

Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Get to know Jeffrey: A teacher’s perspective on living life to the fullest with Parkinson’s appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:39 +0000

Navin isn’t your average person living with Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosed in 2013 at just 39 years old, he has spent over a decade not only learning how to manage the condition, but also how to thrive with it. Now in his early 50s, Navin continues to be resilient. He lives each day with joy and determination, grounded in the belief that Parkinson’s may be part of his life, but it doesn’t control it or keep him from the moments that matter most with his friends, his family, and how he chooses to live each day.

“Every day is a gift. If I don’t see the sunshine, I choose to be the sunshine.”

That mindset shows up in everything Navin does. He’s played the violin for more than 40 years and has even performed in a rock band with his electric fiddle. He’s taken up acting and motivational speaking, and created a platform where he shares his story to uplift others and help people see that life doesn’t stop with a diagnosis.

Navin is also a lifelong table tennis player. After his diagnosis, he leaned into the sport even more and noticed something he describes as incredible; his tremors would pause while he played. Demonstrating that effect during speaking engagements often leaves audiences speechless and hopeful.

“It’s about staying active mentally, physically, emotionally,” he says. “The moment you panic, you start to go downhill. But if you stay in motion, there’s still so much life to live.”

Like many people living with Parkinson’s, Navin tried several different treatment options over the years. None of the options felt quite right or helped him achieve his treatment goals, until his neurologist suggested he try CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules.

From the start, Navin noticed a difference. “I’m really happy with CREXONT,” he says. “I had no idea it would be this good.”

He appreciated how smoothly the transition went for him and how an extended-release oral treatment fit better into his lifestyle. With fewer daily doses, he found himself less tied to a strict schedule, which gave him more freedom to focus on the things that mattered most—music, movement, and connection.

“It just fits,” he explains. “It gave me a sense of stability. I didn’t have to think about dosing constantly. That gave me more confidence and motivation to keep going.”

CREXONT is designed to provide a more gradual release of levodopa throughout the day, which may help reduce the ups and downs in blood/plasma concentrations that many patients experience with immediate-release treatments. While every person’s experience is unique, Navin felt like it offered him a smoother path forward.

“I am able to continue to tackle my Parkinson’s straight on, and that made me very happy,” he says.

Navin views his Parkinson’s not as a limitation, but as a launching point. It’s led him to discover new passions, build deeper relationships, and speak up for others who may feel isolated or unsure of what’s ahead.

He’s passionate about helping others see their diagnosis differently. Whether he’s sharing his story on social media, speaking from a stage, or even announcing it over an airplane loudspeaker (yes, really!), Navin’s goal is to let people know they’re not alone and that life after diagnosis is still full of possibility.

“All of humanity is a family,” he says. “We’re all on this journey together. And if I can help someone feel even a little less afraid of the future, then I’ve done what I set out to do.”

Navin’s experience with CREXONT is his own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease

Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms

Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Navin’s journey: How music, movement, and positivity shaped his path with Parkinson’s appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:56 +0000

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 treatment journey 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 practice or 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’m able to participate more in the activities I care about.”

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 patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms

Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it

Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Stuart in motion: Staying active with Parkinson’s disease appeared first on Crexont HCP.

Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms

admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 19:05:56 +0000

For Randy, curiosity and critical thinking have been at the center of his life’s journey, from navigating early education challenges to pioneering materials science innovations, and eventually, to managing life with Parkinson’s disease. His story is one of understanding, perseverance, and finding clarity in the face of life-altering change.

Born and raised in New York City, Randy’s early years were shaped by both challenge and promise. At age eight, he was sent to a special school because he struggled with reading, though his talent for math was quickly recognized. “They said I was bright, just uninterested in reading,” Randy recalls. “They taught me how to think, not just memorize facts, but how to analyze and break things down. That mindset shaped everything.”

Early on, Randy moved to New Jersey, where he would later meet his future wife through a country club. In a twist of fate, he initially hesitated to ask her out, mistakenly believing she was married, only to learn it was actually her twin sister! Their relationship blossomed over frequent weekend trips into NYC, where they shared meals and memories. “She eventually asked if I was ever going to propose, so I did.”

In 1999, Randy began working with a compound that would shape the next 25 years of his life. He stabilized it and found ways to integrate it into garments and insulation, even developing a vacuum-sealed foam with buoyancy, which is useful for everything from clothing to battery protection to home construction. Despite some setbacks, his passion never wavered. “I decided the way to move forward is to constantly create something new.”

That same drive helped him face Parkinson’s disease when he was diagnosed in 2017, at age 69. One afternoon during a lunch break with a friend, he began experiencing unexpected symptoms. His friend brought him to a hospital, where overnight testing led to a possible diagnosis. When he called a neurologist’s office for confirmation, his sister-in-law reminded him that her son, Dr Falconer, was a specialist in Parkinson’s. Randy was seen the next day.

“The diagnosis was a shock. But looking back, I should’ve seen the signs, like when I started to struggle with rock climbing.”

Dr Falconer became Randy’s go-to expert and care partner from that point on. Their relationship, both family and professional, became a trusted foundation as they worked together to find the right treatment plan. “I’ve had other neurologists before, people who didn’t even catch my diagnosis, but Dr Falconer took the time to listen and really understand what I was going through.”

Working with Dr Falconer, Randy began exploring treatment options. His initial experiences weren’t easy. In fact, some approaches didn’t sit well with him, but over time, he and his doctor found a path forward. Today, Randy takes CREXONT® (carbidopa and levodopa) extended-release capsules three times daily. “We tried different timing. After about 10 hours, I’d start noticing symptoms again. Now, there’s roughly seven hours between doses, and it’s working well for me.”

Randy is thoughtful and analytical about his condition. “It doesn’t matter what I’m dealing with, I always take an analytical approach. That’s how I think, and it’s how I manage my Parkinson’s.”

Living with Parkinson’s has changed his day-to-day routine significantly. Simple tasks, like getting dressed, now take much longer. He’s cautious on the stairs, aware of his balance and gait. He’s also noticed that everything moves slowly, cooking, moving, thinking. But he hasn’t let that stop him. “You’re painfully aware of it every day. But my attitude is, I’m going to win this battle. I may not in reality, but I think I am.”

Randy still climbs rock walls, although less frequently, and plays pickleball with neighbors. He also treasures time with his family. His daughter, a nurse and healthcare leader, and his son, a web developer, both live nearby with their children. He sees his daughter’s family weekly for Sunday dinners, and visits his son’s family every couple of months. His grandchildren are the joy of his life, from his granddaughter’s incredible drawing talent to his youngest grandson’s boundless energy. “He’s happiest when someone’s chasing him around the house,” Randy laughs.

In 2020, Randy made another major change. He sold his Tudor-style home in New Jersey and moved into a modern home in a 55+ community to be closer to his daughter and to simplify his lifestyle during the pandemic. “It was the right time. The community here is amazing; people genuinely look out for one another. It makes a huge difference.”

Randy also finds purpose in helping others with Parkinson’s in his community. People often approach him for advice. “People see that I’m doing well and ask what I’m taking, what I’m doing. I always tell them: I’m not a doctor but talk to your physician about what’s available.”

“I do tell them what’s helped me, and I always say, ‘Dr Falconer is the one who got me here.’”

He’s also passionate about staying informed and continues to read extensively about Parkinson’s. “There’s a lot of information out there, and not all of it is worthwhile. But I always ask Dr Falconer what’s new. When he suggested trying CREXONT, I trusted him, even though it was new.”

When asked why he’s sharing his story, Randy doesn’t hesitate: “People need to know there’s hope. There are new things coming out that can help people live better. The community needs to be enlightened. I want people to know they have options—and that things can get better.”

Randy’s experience with CREXONT is his own and may not reflect the experience of every patient. For some patients, CREXONT may cause falling asleep during daily activities. Side effects may include nausea and anxiety. Individual results will vary. Talk to your patients to see if CREXONT is right for them. Only an HCP should assess each patient’s condition and advise them on treatment options.

More stories from real patients

Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it

Meet Dr Morgan: From treating Parkinson’s to living with it" tabindex="-1" > Read story

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward

Gasper’s story: Strength, family, and moving forward" tabindex="-1" > Read story

The post Randy’s perspective: Living with Parkinson’s on his terms appeared first on Crexont HCP.