Medical & Scientific Leaders
Neurologists, clinicians, and researchers advancing our understanding of Parkinson’s—its causes, treatment, and prevention.
These experts bring deep clinical and scientific insight, helping shape a future where Parkinson’s is no longer seen as inevitable.
"Drs Okun and Dorsey lay out a compelling call to action for all stakeholders within the Parkinson's disease and PD research communities. Through better understanding of the role that toxins play in mitigating PD risk, exploring novel paradigms, and forging toward the final frontier, their PLAN will help lead us toward a world without Parkinson's."
- Dr. Joohi Jimenez-Shahed
Co-Chair of the Parkinson Study Group
"Research from our lab and others increasingly links certain environmental toxins in the air and water to greater risk of Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Plan highlights these findings and outlines a clear path toward preventing the disease."
- Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski
Research Assistant Professor, Barrow Neurological Institute
"The Parkinson's Plan confronts the environmental realities we can't afford to ignore. It's a scientifically grounded, deeply human resource for those living with Parkinson's and for those determined to prevent it."
- Dr. Tim Greenamyre
Love Family Professor of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh
"The Parkinson's Plan offers an insightful synthesis of cutting-edge science, patient experience, and public health urgency. It thoughtfully connects environmental risk factors to disease mechanisms, and details a new path for prevention and treatment. A compelling and timely contribution to the field."
- Dr. Ted Dawson
Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Professor of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Director of the Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University
"This eloquently written book takes readers through a broad sweep of Parkinson's, the fastest growing neurological disorder globally, from its historical beginnings to the latest (and future) treatments. Above all, it is an extremely timely call-to-action, especially for steps to be taken to prevent Parkinson's (since "the best treatment is prevention"!), by cleaning up our food, water, and air. As the authors carefully lay out, there is now compelling evidence that environmental toxicants (especially pesticides, TCE, and air pollution) are major contributors to Parkinson's. This is extremely worrisome, and all three factors remain major issues in many parts of the developing world, including the Asia-Pacific where the majority of the world's population resides. Although I have been an academic neurologist in this field for almost 20 years, this well researched and referenced book provided many fresh insights (and chilling statistics - e.g., up to 30% of US groundwater contaminated by TCE!). I was especially touched by personal stories of people affected by Parkinson's, and those of the doctors and researchers working in this area (some of whom have later developed the disease or related neurodegenerative disorders themselves - underscoring our shared humanity). The "Parkinson's 25" plan offered by the authors to help prevent or mitigate Parkinson's is highly practical and can be adopted by affected individuals and the general public alike - thus, the book is essential reading for everyone."
- Professor Lim Shen-Yang, MD, FRACP, FASC
Parkinson's neurologist and Chair, International Parkinson & Movement Disorder Society, Asian-Oceanian Section
"As both a researcher and someone living with Parkinson's, I know how vital it is to have reliable, forward-thinking guidance. The Parkinson's Plan delivers just that-a science-based, empowering approach that puts knowledge and agency back into the hands of those affected."
-Sara Riggare
PhD, Researcher, Uppsala University, Sweden
"You may be shocked to learn that the prevalence of Parkinson's disease is five times higher in Industrialized countries than the rest of the world. Drs. Dorsey and Okun are convinced it is a crisis and have methodically set out to investigate the underlying reasons why. Even after accounting for longevity, increased awareness and more sophisticated diagnostics, something is causing more people to develop this disease, and at increasingly younger ages. As a fellow neuroscientist, I feel a deep obligation to change that trajectory. The Parkinson's Plan brilliantly rises to the challenge and meets this moment with science, clarity, and a path forward-for families living with Parkinson's today, and for the future generations we must protect."
- Sanjay Gupta, MD
Emory University, Associate Professor Department of Neurosurgery; CNN, Chief Medical Correspondent
"Parkinson's disease is rising rapidly across Asia, yet awareness of its environmental and preventable causes remains limited. The Parkinson's Plan addresses this critical gap by linking emerging global science to regional realities. It offers a clear and compelling case for prevention, particularly in parts of the world where aging populations and industrial exposure intersect. This book is a valuable guide for those shaping the future of neurological health in Asia and beyond."
- Dr. Raymond Lo
Chief Executive Director, St. Mary's Hospital, Taitung, Taiwan
“The Parkinson’s Plan is an evidence-based call to action, outlining how smart policies, cleaner environments, and redirected investments can turn the tide on one of the fastest-growing neurological diseases of our time."
- Prof. Bastiaan R. Bloem, MD, PhD, FRCPE, FEAN
Director, Radboudumc Center of Expertise for Parkinson's & Movement Disorders, Netherlands and Co-Founder, ParkinsonNet
"The Parkinson's Plan presents a powerful and much-needed perspective on the early origins of Parkinson's disease. It highlights emerging science-including the role of environmental exposures and nose- and gut-first pathology-with clarity and urgency. This book will inspire researchers, clinicians, and patients alike to think differently about how we detect, understand, and ultimately prevent this complex disease."
- Dr. Per Borghammer
Professor of Nuclear Medicine and Neurology, Aarhus University, Denmark
"My colleagues and I have devoted our professional lives to understanding the causes of and advancing new treatments for Parkinson's disease. Yet, its burden still grows. The Parkinson's Plan details a new path to both preventing and treating the disease. We should examine it carefully."
- Dr. Michael Schwarzschild
Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School
"The Parkinson's Plan is a call to action for all of us living, caring, studying and treating Parkinson's disease. Drs. Dorsey and Okun present compelling evidence once more linking environmental factors as the culprits in Parkinson's development and in the global pandemic. The fascinating stories of individuals living with the disease add a human facet to the urgency of implementing a plan to end this terrible disease.This book is a must read for anyone who is interested in this field. Within it you can find an actionable blueprint for carrying out the task of preventing and strategically eliminating the known suspected toxins in air, water, and food while increasing access to care, medications, research and resources."
- Maria De León, MD
Best-selling author of Parkinson's Diva and Viviendo Más Allá del Párkinson
"As a physician, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact of Parkinson's disease on my patients. Unfortunately, that understanding became deeply personal when my father lived with the condition for ten years. Seeing its effects on him and our family underscored the urgent need for advancements in understanding, prevention, and treatment. Dr. Ray Dorsey's seminal work in this field is truly commendable."
- Lawrence "Rusty" Hofmann, MD
Professor of Interventional Radiology, Chief of Industry Partnerships, Stanford Medicine
"Neurodegenerative diseases like PSP, CBD, MSA, and Parkinson's may differ in presentation, but they share many underlying challenges-delayed diagnoses, limited treatments, and too little focus on early detection and prevention. The Parkinson's Plan shines an important light on the role of environmental risk and early intervention, offering a bold vision filled with stories and backed by science that applies across the entire spectrum of parkinsonian disorders. It's a valuable contribution to our collective mission to make these diseases increasingly rare in our lifetime."
- Dr. Kristophe Diaz
Executive Director and Chief Science Officer, CurePSP
"Parkinson's affected my father, and the evidence is increasingly clear not only that the incidence of this disease is rising but that it may be preventable. Action is clearly needed for the individual patient and also at a public health level. The Parkinson's Plan outlines concrete actions and steps that we can take as individuals, researchers, physicians, and citizens to prevent and treat this disease."
- Dr. Justin C. McArthur
Professor and Director, Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology; Member, National Academy of Medicine
"I have been caring for individuals with Parkinson's disease and helping advance new therapies for the condition for over four decades. I have always been inspired by the courage of those affected by this neurodegenerative disease and how they and their caregivers cope with the progressive burden. Although not yet curable, Parkinson's disease is treatable. We, however, need novel approaches to preventing and treating the disease. The Parkinson's Plan is a well-written comprehensive account of our current understanding of the cause and treatment of the disease. It is a valuable guide for all of us."
- Dr. Joseph Jankovic
Professor of Neurology and Distinguished Chair in Movement Disorders, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
"The Parkinson's Plan offers a new path forward that empowers people with Parkinson's to live well today while driving progress in prevention, care, and research for tomorrow. By connecting environmental insights with practical, everyday strategies, including the "Parkinson's 25," this book serves as a valuable tool to harness our knowledge for genuine impact. It contributes meaningfully to our shared mission to improve lives, amplify voices, and advocate for change across Europe and beyond. Together, I believe we can turn knowledge into hope, and empower those living with Parkinson's, as well as their families and professionals, by showing that progress is possible".
- Dr. Josefa Domingos
President, Parkinson's Europe
"Veterans are disproportionately affected by Parkinson's disease-often due to toxic exposures that went unrecognized for far too long. The Parkinson's Plan powerfully brings these connections to light, offering stories of those directly affected and a science-based, prevention-oriented roadmap that speaks directly to the needs of those who served. It's a timely and vital resource for the Veteran community and those committed to their care."
- Dr. John Duda
National Director, VA Parkinson's Disease Research, Education and Clinical Centers (PADRECC); Professor of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania
"The Parkinson's Plan is a powerful testament to the importance of seeing the whole person and learning why their disease began. It integrates cutting-edge science with a deep awareness of the environmental, emotional, and social factors that shape the Parkinson's journey. This book speaks to the urgent need to put patients at the center of care, to reduce stigma, and to prevent the disease for all."
- Dr. Indu Subramanian
Clinical Professor of Neurology, UCLA; Director, VA Southwest Parkinson's Center; Founder, Aloha PD
"Parkinson's is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world-and much of it is preventable. We need to shift from reaction to prevention, from passive patients to empowered individuals. The Parkinson's Plan supports that transformation with trusted knowledge, practical tools, and a clear call for change."
- Dr. Alberto Espay
Professor and Endowed Chair of the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Center for Parkinson's Disease at the University of Cincinnati and author of Brain Fables
"For 25 years, we have been detailing the likely environmental causes - from pesticides to air pollution - of Parkinson's and other brain diseases. This book conveys this research through compelling stories and lays down a path for preventing Parkinson's for all of us."
- Dr. Deborah Cory-Slechta
Professor of Environmental Medicine and Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center
"Brain diseases are the world's leading source of disability, the second leading cause of death, and Parkinson's Disease is among the fastest-growing in terms of prevalence, disability, and societal burden. The Parkinson's Plan is more than a roadmap for managing disease-it's a manifesto for preventing it. With scientific rigor and moral clarity, Dorsey and Okun reveal a future where Parkinson's is not an inevitability, but a preventable condition. It is a bold call to shift from reaction to prevention, grounded in hope, driven by data, and anchored in the urgent reality that the time to act is now."
- Dr. David Dodick
Chief Medical and Science Officer, Atria Health and Research Institute, and Professor Emeritus, Mayo Clinic
"Neurodegenerative diseases are devastating and force us to consider as a society how we can change the increasing prevalence. While certain syndromes, like Huntington's disease, are caused by inherited genes, The Parkinson's Plan challenges us to confront the real possibility that environmental exposures cause Parkinson's disease. This book goes further and outlines a plan for how we can change individual and societal behavior to address this reality. I encourage you to read this book, consider the conclusions, and be an instrument of change."
- Dr. Daniel Claassen
CEO of the Huntington Study Group
"Research from our lab and others increasingly links certain environmental toxins in the air and water to greater risk of Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Plan highlights these findings and outlines a clear path toward preventing the disease."
- Dr. Brad Racette
Kemper and Ethel Marley Chair for Neurology
"The Parkinson's Plan is a timely and thought-provoking contribution that challenges us to reconsider the origins, trajectory, and treatment of Parkinson's disease. By examining the role of environmental factors and advocating for prevention alongside care and better treatment, it invites a broader, more proactive approach to this complex disorder. A compelling read for clinicians, researchers, and advocates alike. Here's to 0-10-100!"
- Dr. Anthony Lang
Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Professor of Neurodegenerative Diseases and Director of the Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University
Drs Okun and Dorsey lay out a compelling call to action for all stakeholders within the Parkinson's disease and PD research communities. Through better understanding of the role that toxins play in mitigating PD risk, exploring novel paradigms, and forging toward the final frontier, their PLAN will help lead us toward a world without Parkinson's.
- Dr. Andrew Siderowf
Chair of the Parkinson Study Group
"The prevalence of Parkinson's is not uniform. It varies by geography, and this variation is likely in part due to differences in exposure to environmental toxicants. It also suggests that some Parkinsons' cases are preventable. The Parkinson's Plan tells you how to minimize your risk."
- Dr. Allison W. Willis
Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology, University of Pennsylvania
"Our research has shown a robust connection between pesticide exposure and increased Parkinson's risk. The Parkinson's Plan brings global attention to this and other environmental drivers and translates the science into something people can act on. It's an essential tool for prevention."
- Alexis Elbaz, MD, PhD
Research Director, Inserm, Paris
Environmental & Public Health Experts
Leaders uncovering how pollution, toxic exposures, and public policy are driving the rise in Parkinson’s and related diseases.
They connect science to systemic change—exposing root causes and pushing for prevention on a global scale.
"We lost Robin to a disease we couldn't see coming-Lewy body dementia-but what we're learning now is that many of these brain diseases, including Parkinson's, may not be random. The Parkinson's Plan shines a light on the toxic exposures-like pesticides and industrial chemicals-that are harming our brains. This book is compassionate, clear, and brave enough to ask the hard questions. And we need that now more than ever."
- Susan Schneider Williams
Artist and Advocate for Lewy Body Dementia Awareness and Research, Lewy Body Dementia Ambassador at the American Brain Foundation
"A must-read for anyone who believes prevention should start with the truth. The Parkinson's Plan is a wake-up call to the regulatory failure that allows toxic chemicals like paraquat, chlorpyrifos, and TCE to remain in our environment. These poisons are linked to Parkinson's, cancer, and more-and this book makes clear what too many have ignored: it's time to act."
- Ken Cook
President, Environmental Working Group
"The songbirds in West Palm Beach are disappearing, and I am concerned that pesticides may be to blame. Some of those same chemicals may be responsible for Parkinson's disease appearing in such great numbers."
- Katie Carpenter
Everwild Media in West Palm Beach
"My 13-year-old daughter developed brain cancer after exposures in her community to a degreasing chemical known to cause cancer. Eighty children in our town have been diagnosed with cancer. If it was your child, you would want to learn why. If you don't want your child to get cancer, if you don't want to develop cancer yourself or get Parkinson's, read The Parkinson's Plan. It tells you why and how to protect yourself and your family.
- Kari Rhinehart, RN
Co-founder and director, If It Was Your Child, Franklin, Indiana
"As someone who's fought tirelessly for those impacted by environmental exposures, I recognize the power of truth and persistence. The Parkinson's Plan is a courageous, eye-opening book that challenges the status quo and gives voice to the many who have suffered in silence. It's a must-read for anyone seeking answers and accountability."
- Jerry Ensminger
Retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sergeant; advocate for justice in the Camp Lejeune water contamination case
"At Beyond Pesticides, we've seen firsthand how inadequate regulation and unchecked chemical use threaten human health-and The Parkinson's Plan exposes these failures with clarity and purpose. It lays bare the environmental roots of Parkinson's disease and shows how we can stop this crisis through prevention, policy reform, and accountability. This book is essential reading for anyone who believes that protecting our environment is inseparable from protecting our health."
-Jay Feldman
Executive Director, Beyond Pesticides
"For too long, the true causes of Parkinson's have been concealed from us. Chemicals in our food, water, and air are fueling its rise. The Parkinson's Plan provides the evidence through compelling stories so you and future generations will be spared its indignities."
- Eric Eyre
Pulitzer Prize-winner investigative journalist, author of Death in Mud Lick, and a person with Parkinson's
"For 25 years, we have been detailing the likely environmental causes - from pesticides to air pollution - of Parkinson's and other brain diseases. This book conveys this research through compelling stories and lays down a path for preventing Parkinson's for all of us."
- Dr. Deborah Cory-Slechta
Professor of Environmental Medicine and Neuroscience, University of Rochester Medical Center
"For decades, powerful industries have used manufactured doubt to delay action on dangerous chemicals-just as Big Tobacco once did. The Parkinson's Plan pulls back the curtain on how that same playbook is now costing us lives and brain health. It's a bold, necessary call to stop letting profit silence science."
- David Michaels, PhD, MPH
Author, Doubt Is Their Product and The Triumph of Doubt
"Research from our lab and others increasingly links certain environmental toxins in the air and water to greater risk of Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Plan highlights these findings and outlines a clear path toward preventing the disease."
- Dr. Brad Racette
Kemper and Ethel Marley Chair for Neurology
"Health care today is engineered to treat people when they're sick. If we're going to meaningfully change people's health and well being on a global scale, we must move away from reactive sick care toward proactive, preventive care. The Parkinson's Plan presents a case study for just that: a blueprint for what prevention in action looks like. Please read this book."
- Alan Tisch
CEO and Co-founder, Atria Health and Research Institute
Public Figures & Cultural Influencers
Artists, athletes, authors, and media voices using their platforms to raise awareness and drive change.
They bring visibility, compassion, and urgency to the fight against Parkinson’s—often from a deeply personal place.
My mother battled dementia with Lewy bodies-the second most common form of dementia. Parkinson's is now one of the world's fastest-growing brain diseases. These conditions have causes-and The Parkinson's Plan uncovers them, offering 25 proven ways to lower your risk."
- Max Lugavere
New York Times best-selling author of Genius Foods and host of The Genius Life podcast
"Parkinson's became personal for me when my dad was diagnosed several years ago. I've seen firsthand how challenging the journey can be. The Parkinson's Plan is a powerful resource for anyone walking this road. I'm so grateful for how Dr. Okun has helped my dad and our family over the years, and my hope would be that this book offers readers real tools, honest perspective, and - maybe most importantly - a reminder that you don't have to face it alone."
- Tim Tebow
Former NFL Plyer
"Dr. Dorsey is brilliant. His research is fastidious, and proves what deep thinkers have suspected all along, that we are poisoning ourselves. This is an invaluable guide to protect yourself and your children from unthinkable neurological diseases."
- Tim Green
former NFL player, practicing attorney, and New York Times best-selling author
"In baseball, you don't win by home runs alone - it takes teamwork, attitude, and relentless determination by everyone to win. The fight against Parkinson's is no different. In The Parkinson's Plan, Drs. Okun and Dorsey lay out a vision that takes on Parkinson's with a team approach - where everyone plays a role and every action matters. Beyond doctors and pills - it's about motivating people to do what they can to move, connect, and fight back. This book offers a plan to build a better care universe and change the game for millions worldwide.
- Kirk Gibson
Two-time World Series Champion and founder of the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson's
"The songbirds in West Palm Beach are disappearing, and I am concerned that pesticides may be to blame. Some of those same chemicals may be responsible for Parkinson's disease appearing in such great numbers."
- Katie Carpenter
Everwild Media in West Palm Beach
"Living with Parkinson's isn't a solo act-it takes an ensemble. What I appreciate about The Parkinson's Plan is how it supports that truth. It's written for real people-individuals, families, and entire communities-trying to move together through something complex."
- Christian McBride
Nine-time Grammy-winning jazz musician
Policy & Advocacy Leadership
Elected officials, nonprofit leaders, and advocates working to expand access, equity, and action.
Their voices shape legislation, influence institutions, and move the broader conversation forward.
"In too many parts of the world, people with Parkinson's face their diagnosis without support, context, or clarity. The Parkinson's Plan is an essential resource-not just for understanding the science, but for humanizing the experience and making prevention and better care accessible to all."
- Omotola Thomas
Founder, Parkinson's Africa
"Neurodegenerative diseases like PSP, CBD, MSA, and Parkinson's may differ in presentation, but they share many underlying challenges-delayed diagnoses, limited treatments, and too little focus on early detection and prevention. The Parkinson's Plan shines an important light on the role of environmental risk and early intervention, offering a bold vision filled with stories and backed by science that applies across the entire spectrum of parkinsonian disorders. It's a valuable contribution to our collective mission to make these diseases increasingly rare in our lifetime."
- Dr. Kristophe Diaz
Executive Director and Chief Science Officer, CurePSP
"The Parkinson's Plan offers a new path forward that empowers people with Parkinson's to live well today while driving progress in prevention, care, and research for tomorrow. By connecting environmental insights with practical, everyday strategies, including the "Parkinson's 25," this book serves as a valuable tool to harness our knowledge for genuine impact. It contributes meaningfully to our shared mission to improve lives, amplify voices, and advocate for change across Europe and beyond. Together, I believe we can turn knowledge into hope, and empower those living with Parkinson's, as well as their families and professionals, by showing that progress is possible".
- Dr. Josefa Domingos
President, Parkinson's Europe
"Winning against Parkinson's isn't about short-term fixes - it's about a long-term strategy. In The Parkinson's Plan, Drs. Dorsey and Okun create a proactive guide for people living with Parkinson's and their loved ones, empowering them to turn hope into action, and action into lasting change."
-John L. Lehr
President and CEO of the Parkinson's Foundation
"At Cure Parkinson's, we believe that research holds the key to a world without Parkinson's and our mission is identifying ways to slow, stop or reverse the progression of the condition. The Parkinson's Plan powerfully reinforces that belief-linking groundbreaking science with urgent questions of prevention, risk, and action. Thanks to Professors Okun and Dorsey, this book challenges us all accelerate our path toward a world without the disease."
- Helen Matthews
CEO of Cure Parkinson's, London
"Every three years, the global Parkinson's community assembles for the World Parkinson Congress. In The Parkinson's Plan, Drs. Dorsey and Okun challenge us to think about a world where such a gathering is no longer necessary because Parkinson's begins to fade away. A compelling vision for all of us."
- Eli Pollard
Executive Director, World Parkinson Coalition
"Living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) has shown me that we must prioritize prevention in our fight against brain diseases. That's why I championed the National Plan to End Parkinson's Act, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. The Parkinson's Plan carries that work forward. It confronts the environmental drivers of these diseases and gives families something we all deserve: answers, support, and a plan to protect the next generation."
- Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton
U.S. Representative for Virginia's 10th District (2019-2025)
"Parkinson's is a fast-growing, preventable public health crisis-and it demands a united response. That's why I introduced the National Plan to End Parkinson's Act, which passed with overwhelming bi-partisan support. The Parkinson's Plan makes the urgency clear. It equips families with practical tools and amplifies the call for prevention, accountability, and action-now."
- Congressman Gus Bilirakis
Co-Chair, Congressional Caucus on Parkinson's Disease
"Over one million Americans - including many that are close to us- are living with Parkinson's disease. We can no longer afford to wait. We must have a plan, and we must have action. The Parkinson's Plan by Drs. Michael Okun and Ray Dorsey is an important and timely step forward - a powerful guide that lays out how we can take control, accelerate research, and improve care for everyone facing this disease."
- Congressman Cliff Stearns
"With over 12 million people now diagnosed with Parkinson's worldwide, we are facing an alarming and accelerating public health crisis. For me, this fight is personal - my father lives with this disease, and my grandmother and my wife's father also had Parkinson's. I've seen firsthand the power of having a plan, a purpose, and hope. The Parkinson's Plan by Drs. Michael Okun and Ray Dorsey is a vital roadmap not only for those diagnosed but also for families and leaders committed to halting this growing pandemic. This book lays out a bold, actionable strategy to move forward and fight back - just like my dad has chosen to do every single day."
- Congressman C. Scott Franklin
"We can't solve a crisis by pretending it's out of our control. Parkinson's-like ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases-is being driven by preventable factors, and The Parkinson's Plan doesn't shy away from that truth. It puts power back where it belongs: in the hands of patients, families, and a movement demanding change."
- Brian Wallach
Co-Founder, I AM ALS
"This is how change begins: with stories that stir hearts and a clear blueprint for action. The Parkinson's Plan is a spark. Read it, share it, and help light the way to a future without Parkinson's disease."
- Andrea Merriam
CEO, Parkinson and Movement Disorder Alliance
"As an organization dedicated to innovation and cures not just for ALS but for all neurodegenerative diseases, we value collaboration and learning across Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, ALS and others. The Parkinson's Plan is an important step in our shared journey towards answers; a world where our conditions are chronic."
- Andrea Goodman, MSW, MPH
Chief Executive Officer, I AM ALS
"Health care today is engineered to treat people when they're sick. If we're going to meaningfully change people's health and well being on a global scale, we must move away from reactive sick care toward proactive, preventive care. The Parkinson's Plan presents a case study for just that: a blueprint for what prevention in action looks like. Please read this book."
- Alan Tisch
CEO and Co-founder, Atria Health and Research Institute
Community Voices
People living with Parkinson’s or directly impacted by it—through caregiving, family experience, or diagnosis.
Their stories, courage, and leadership ground the movement in real lives and inspire urgent action.
"Parkinson's became personal for me when my dad was diagnosed several years ago. I've seen firsthand how challenging the journey can be. The Parkinson's Plan is a powerful resource for anyone walking this road. I'm so grateful for how Dr. Okun has helped my dad and our family over the years, and my hope would be that this book offers readers real tools, honest perspective, and - maybe most importantly - a reminder that you don't have to face it alone."
- Tim Tebow
Former NFL Plyer
"The Parkinson's Plan confronts the environmental realities we can't afford to ignore. It's a scientifically grounded, deeply human resource for those living with Parkinson's and for those determined to prevent it."
- Dr. Tim Greenamyre
Love Family Professor of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh
"Dr. Dorsey is brilliant. His research is fastidious, and proves what deep thinkers have suspected all along, that we are poisoning ourselves. This is an invaluable guide to protect yourself and your children from unthinkable neurological diseases."
- Tim Green
former NFL player, practicing attorney, and New York Times best-selling author
"We lost Robin to a disease we couldn't see coming-Lewy body dementia-but what we're learning now is that many of these brain diseases, including Parkinson's, may not be random. The Parkinson's Plan shines a light on the toxic exposures-like pesticides and industrial chemicals-that are harming our brains. This book is compassionate, clear, and brave enough to ask the hard questions. And we need that now more than ever."
- Susan Schneider Williams
Artist and Advocate for Lewy Body Dementia Awareness and Research, Lewy Body Dementia Ambassador at the American Brain Foundation
"Parkinson's disease is a diagnosis that feels beyond our control and can leave those of us that are afflicted with this illness facing a lifetime of progression and an uncertain future for ourselves and generations to come. The Parkinson's Plan is a call to action, empowering those living with PD and the broader community to advocate for solving the enigma of what exactly causes PD and for the prevention of known environmental toxins fueled by a true sense of urgency. At the same time, advocating for person-centered care and expanding the search for better treatments and ultimately a cure. This is a must read for all those affected, or are otherwise impacted by this progressive, incurable, debilitating disease."
- Dr. Soania Mathur
Co-founder of PD Avengers and Founder of UnshakeableMD
"We can no longer accept that Parkinson's is simply inevitable. The Parkinson's Plan challenges that narrative with science, urgency, and hope-offering a path toward preventing and ultimately ending this disease. As someone living with Parkinson's, I found this book both empowering and energizing. It speaks directly to those of us who are demanding more than management-we want answers, accountability, and action."
- Sharon Krischer
Parkinson's Advocate and Creator of "Twitchy Woman"
"Both of us are athletes, graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, physicians, veterans of Afghanistan, and mothers, and we were diagnosed with Parkinson's in our 40s. Parkinson's is not an 'old man's disease.' It affects all of us. The Parkinson's Plan tells us why, how to slow it, treat it, and prevent this terrible disease."
- Sara Whittingham, MD
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force (retired); Veteran Aerospace Medicine Flight Surgeon, Staff Anesthesiologist, Cleveland Clinic; Assistant Professor of Surgery, Northeast Ohio Medical University
"As both a researcher and someone living with Parkinson's, I know how vital it is to have reliable, forward-thinking guidance. The Parkinson's Plan delivers just that-a science-based, empowering approach that puts knowledge and agency back into the hands of those affected."
-Sara Riggare
PhD, Researcher, Uppsala University, Sweden
"In too many parts of the world, people with Parkinson's face their diagnosis without support, context, or clarity. The Parkinson's Plan is an essential resource-not just for understanding the science, but for humanizing the experience and making prevention and better care accessible to all."
- Omotola Thomas
Founder, Parkinson's Africa
My mother battled dementia with Lewy bodies-the second most common form of dementia. Parkinson's is now one of the world's fastest-growing brain diseases. These conditions have causes-and The Parkinson's Plan uncovers them, offering 25 proven ways to lower your risk."
- Max Lugavere
New York Times best-selling author of Genius Foods and host of The Genius Life podcast
"The Parkinson's Plan is a call to action for all of us living, caring, studying and treating Parkinson's disease. Drs. Dorsey and Okun present compelling evidence once more linking environmental factors as the culprits in Parkinson's development and in the global pandemic. The fascinating stories of individuals living with the disease add a human facet to the urgency of implementing a plan to end this terrible disease.This book is a must read for anyone who is interested in this field. Within it you can find an actionable blueprint for carrying out the task of preventing and strategically eliminating the known suspected toxins in air, water, and food while increasing access to care, medications, research and resources."
- Maria De León, MD
Best-selling author of Parkinson's Diva and Viviendo Más Allá del Párkinson
"We need more than awareness-we need action. The Parkinson's Plan is a powerful step in that direction. It challenges the broader system to do better: to make quality care the standard-not the exception and to end the decades of pollution that is fueling the rise of this insidious disease that will most certainly impact our children and grandchildren."
-Lonnie Ali
"As a physician, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact of Parkinson's disease on my patients. Unfortunately, that understanding became deeply personal when my father lived with the condition for ten years. Seeing its effects on him and our family underscored the urgent need for advancements in understanding, prevention, and treatment. Dr. Ray Dorsey's seminal work in this field is truly commendable."
- Lawrence "Rusty" Hofmann, MD
Professor of Interventional Radiology, Chief of Industry Partnerships, Stanford Medicine
"In baseball, you don't win by home runs alone - it takes teamwork, attitude, and relentless determination by everyone to win. The fight against Parkinson's is no different. In The Parkinson's Plan, Drs. Okun and Dorsey lay out a vision that takes on Parkinson's with a team approach - where everyone plays a role and every action matters. Beyond doctors and pills - it's about motivating people to do what they can to move, connect, and fight back. This book offers a plan to build a better care universe and change the game for millions worldwide.
- Kirk Gibson
Two-time World Series Champion and founder of the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson's
"The songbirds in West Palm Beach are disappearing, and I am concerned that pesticides may be to blame. Some of those same chemicals may be responsible for Parkinson's disease appearing in such great numbers."
- Katie Carpenter
Everwild Media in West Palm Beach
Dr. Ray Dorsey and Dr. Michael Okun have written a game changer that not only delves into the potential causes of Parkinson's disease but also provides practical solutions that can mitigate the chances of getting Parkinson's disease. The Parkinson's Plan is a monumental accomplishment that shines a bright light on the potential causes of Parkinson's disease and provides an opportunity for those of us dealing with this disease to be heard!
- Karl Robb
Parkinson's Advocate & Author of A Soft Voice in a Noisy World: A Guide to Dealing & Healing with Parkinson's Disease
"My 13-year-old daughter developed brain cancer after exposures in her community to a degreasing chemical known to cause cancer. Eighty children in our town have been diagnosed with cancer. If it was your child, you would want to learn why. If you don't want your child to get cancer, if you don't want to develop cancer yourself or get Parkinson's, read The Parkinson's Plan. It tells you why and how to protect yourself and your family.
- Kari Rhinehart, RN
Co-founder and director, If It Was Your Child, Franklin, Indiana
"Living with Parkinson's means showing up and fighting every day. But it also means asking why this disease is affecting more people, and what we can do to stop it. The Parkinson's Plan brings those answers together-with real science, practical steps, and a focus on prevention. It's the kind of resource I wish every family had."
- Jimmy Choi
Parkinson's Advocate, Athlete, and Speaker
"As someone who's fought tirelessly for those impacted by environmental exposures, I recognize the power of truth and persistence. The Parkinson's Plan is a courageous, eye-opening book that challenges the status quo and gives voice to the many who have suffered in silence. It's a must-read for anyone seeking answers and accountability."
- Jerry Ensminger
Retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sergeant; advocate for justice in the Camp Lejeune water contamination case
"The Parkinson's Plan is a powerful testament to the importance of seeing the whole person and learning why their disease began. It integrates cutting-edge science with a deep awareness of the environmental, emotional, and social factors that shape the Parkinson's journey. This book speaks to the urgent need to put patients at the center of care, to reduce stigma, and to prevent the disease for all."
- Dr. Indu Subramanian
Clinical Professor of Neurology, UCLA; Director, VA Southwest Parkinson's Center; Founder, Aloha PD
"For too long, the true causes of Parkinson's have been concealed from us. Chemicals in our food, water, and air are fueling its rise. The Parkinson's Plan provides the evidence through compelling stories so you and future generations will be spared its indignities."
- Eric Eyre
Pulitzer Prize-winner investigative journalist, author of Death in Mud Lick, and a person with Parkinson's
"Both of us are athletes, graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, physicians, veterans of Afghanistan, and mothers, and we were diagnosed with Parkinson's in our 40s. Parkinson's is not an 'old man's disease.' It affects all of us. The Parkinson's Plan tells us why, how to slow it, treat it, and prevent this terrible disease."
- Jana Kokkonen Reed
Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Air Force (retired); Veteran Aerospace Medicine Flight Surgeon; Veteran Emergency Medicine Physician
"Parkinson's changes your life-but it doesn't get the last word. The Parkinson's Plan meets people like me with honesty, dignity, and direction. It will help us live better with this disease, while pushing the conversation forward on what causes it, how we prevent it, and why it's important to include the impact on the family unit, care partner and person with Parkinson's with emphasis on quality of life."
- Denise Coley
Retired Tech Executive and Advocate for PD Awareness, Inclusive Research Participation, and Health Equity
"For too long we've been passive in our approach to eradicating Parkinson's. In compelling terms, this fascinating book gives us a message of hopefulness - and urgency - that there is a clear path forward."
- Davis Phinney
Olympic Medalist and Founder of the Davis Phinney Foundation
Books about an incurable disease always describe the condition, but not always what we can do about it. That's particularly true of a disease like Parkinson's which not only still lacks a cure, it's also the world's fastest growing neurodegenerative disease. But Ray Dorsey and Michael Okun's The Parkinson's Plan is different. It not only spells out what we know about disease triggers - especially environmental toxins - it goes on to provide a no nonsense guide for how we can prevent Parkinson's exponential growth -- from banning disease triggering pesticides to avoiding how often we go to the dry cleaners. In that way, The Parkinson's Plan offers something most books about a still incurable disease usually don't. It offers hope. And as novelist Barbara Kingsolver once wrote, hope is a mode of resistance. Drs. Dorsey and Okun have provided us with more than a diagnosis, they've provided us with a prescription for how we can push back against this disease and derail its relentless growth.
- Dave Iverson
Author, documentary film producer and Parkinson's patient
"Living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) has shown me that we must prioritize prevention in our fight against brain diseases. That's why I championed the National Plan to End Parkinson's Act, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support. The Parkinson's Plan carries that work forward. It confronts the environmental drivers of these diseases and gives families something we all deserve: answers, support, and a plan to protect the next generation."
- Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton
U.S. Representative for Virginia's 10th District (2019-2025)
"Living with Parkinson's isn't a solo act-it takes an ensemble. What I appreciate about The Parkinson's Plan is how it supports that truth. It's written for real people-individuals, families, and entire communities-trying to move together through something complex."
- Christian McBride
Nine-time Grammy-winning jazz musician
"We can't solve a crisis by pretending it's out of our control. Parkinson's-like ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases-is being driven by preventable factors, and The Parkinson's Plan doesn't shy away from that truth. It puts power back where it belongs: in the hands of patients, families, and a movement demanding change."
- Brian Wallach
Co-Founder, I AM ALS
"I was a kid when I lived at Camp LeJeune. I had no idea the water was contaminated with TCE-or that it would contribute to my Parkinson's diagnosis at 36. Learning that years later gave me answers, but it also gave me purpose. The Parkinson's Plan turns stories like mine into action-to prevent the next generation from living out the same story.."
- Brian Grant
Former NBA Player and Founder, Brian Grant Foundation
"Parkinson's Disease is devastating; the prevalence trend is frightening. The family stories you shared have enlightened. The call to action is clear. The Parkinson's Plan provides the missing piece: pragmatic, coordinated action plans that professionals and impacted PD community members can unite behind to help end Parkinson's disease escalation and to help our PD families live better lives. It is critical that you called for inclusiveness for both health equity for treatments and research for scientific accuracy."
- R. Bernard Coley
Care Partner, Research and Health Equity Advocate
"As an organization dedicated to innovation and cures not just for ALS but for all neurodegenerative diseases, we value collaboration and learning across Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, ALS and others. The Parkinson's Plan is an important step in our shared journey towards answers; a world where our conditions are chronic."
- Andrea Goodman, MSW, MPH
Chief Executive Officer, I AM ALS
"I served at Camp Lejeune where I swam, drank, cooked, and bathed in water that was contaminated with cancer-causing chemicals linked to Parkinson's. I also served that water to patients in the base's hospital recovering from cancer surgery. In all, a million service members, their families, and civilians were affected. Many, like me, developed Parkinson's disease. This man-made disease must end, and The Parkinson's Plan shows us how."
- Amy Lindberg
Captain, Medical Service Corps, US Navy
