New Parkinson's Webcast Gives Support to Those Worldwide

Chicago, IL, May 17, 2008 --(PR.com)-- It has been almost eight-years since, Rich Rozek was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease. "It's been a struggle at times dealing with the changes, like losing the dexterity of my left hand - I used to play bass guitar, but not anymore. My writing has deteriorated too. Thank goodness for computers - now I type all my lyrics on my laptop. I still love to write lyrics - and sing too. Parkinson's has slowed me down, but you learn to adapt...you have to remain positive!" Rich has been a singer/songwriter for 30-years, well-known in Europe's hard rock underground, his songs are still played today. When he announced he had Parkinson's Disease, even he was shocked at the response from fans overseas.

Parkinson's is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in an area of the brain. These cells produce dopamine, a chemical that transmits signals between areas in the brain that, when working normally, coordinate smooth and balanced muscle movement. Parkinson's disease causes these nerve cells to die, and as a result, body movements are affected as well as muscle control, and balance. In many cases, there is muscle rigidity and tremors. Drugs help to ease some of the affects for a time, but still, there is no cure.

While Parkinson's Disease used to be known as a disease that affects seniors, more and more younger people are dealing with this disease. Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease can affect an age group from 25 to 55 years old approximately. Probably the most well-known person with Parkinson's is Michael J. Fox.

Rich Rozek can really identify with Michael, both are about the same age, and ironically Rich grew-up watching Michael J. Fox. So when the first neurologist gave Rich the diagnosis, he immediately knew what to expect...because of Michael. The similarities were ironic, Rich is a hard rock singer/songwriter, and Michael has been known to pick-up a guitar now and then, but is known for his acting.

Now as Michael J. Fox raises money for a cure, Rich and his wife, Kim, are raising awareness and lending support to an age group that never expected to get a disease like Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease.

Rich and Kim open their lives every week on their live webcast, "Parkinson's Disease Talk Live" (www.pdtalklive.com). The program is recorded live every Wednesday, from 6PM to 7PM (CST), broadcast with help from online talk show social site, Talk Shoe.

Every week the couple share their experiences dealing with PD. With perspectives from both the person with the disease, as well as the spouse or caregiver. The couple have allowed their life to be an open book, answering questions from callers, e-mail, and those that text them during the show - essentially, they have created a support group online. In addition, they also cover the latest PD news, upcoming events, and interview guests of importance to the audience. Oh, if you miss an episode, they're all archived and available through their website at www.pdtalklive.com.

When asked, what prompted him to start such a unique program? Rich said, "I knew what a tough experience this is to go through, especially at mid-life, when you're worried about taking care of the family, dealing with a job - and life in general - it's hard, very hard! When I was diagnosed, I found out that there were support groups out there, but during the day. They weren't catering to the person with Young-Onset PD. So my wife and I thought, what better way to take advantage of today's technology - the internet. Hopefully we can help make a better tomorrow." Is the program getting an audience? "I think we're both surprised at the numbers. They're growing faster than we ever expected. I think we're hitting our target market too, because most of our audience downloads the episodes...they lead busy lives, but they are listening." Rich said. Any final words, Rich? "Just keep up the good fight!"

To find out more, go to: www.PDTALKLIVE.com or contact Rich & Kim Rozek at pdtalklive@aol.com or (219) 232-5322.

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About PD Talk Live: Their mission is to increase Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease awareness through communication and education, by using today's technology to create a better tomorrow.

Their goal is to give support to those living with Young-Onset Parkinson's Disease worldwide via the internet, and their program, Parkinson's Disease Talk Live. They record the program live, every Wednesday, from 6PM to 7PM (CST) at www.pdtalklive.com. Also available on iTunes. Contact: pdtalklive@aol.com or 219-232-5322.