Praise for Robert W. Smith and
The Parkinsons Playbook
Bob and his supporters define the extraordinary response to chronic illness. Applying the same collaborative creative approach that characterized his professional career, he is winning over his disease. The Parkinsons Playbook is an amazing journal of powerful and useful lessons learned. Go Bob!
Nan Anderson, Principal, FAIA (Fellow of the American Institute of Architects)
Bobs story of living with Parkinsons disease has been quite a journey; he is improving his life in coping with this unforeseen turn of events, and wants to help others take control of their lives. Way to go, Bob!
Jean Smith, Spouse
Bobs story is proof that our bodies and minds can heal themselves when they have what they need to do it. This book will transform many lives!
Amanda Johnson, True to Intention
Robert Smith, you are an inspiration to so many! When you were my yoga student, I was continually amazed at your determination to stay strong, flexible and positive. Your story has the potential to help so many people with Parkinsons! I wish you love and blessings on your journey with The Parkinsons Playbook .
Deborah Lonergan Yatsko
I know Bob very well. He designed my Korean and WWII Memorials (in New Jersey). I saw him decline during those first years, and have had the joy of seeing him rebound. I had the opportunity to review the draft of The Parkinsons Playbook last year. If you have a connection to Parkinsons, you should take a look at this.
Stephen G. Abel, Colonel, U. S. Army (Retired)
The Parkinsons Playbook gives a new meaning to dedication and perseverance. It takes both, and more, to complete the game he so wonderfully describes as he accepts his fate as a sweet victory over Parkinsons. You are playing a great game, Bob, and belong in the Hall of Fame for your effort!
Donald Godi, FASLA (Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects)
Bobs book is really impressive. His way of dealing with Parkinsons can really fit any chronic illness. I have been using some of his methods in dealing with my lung and heart disease. Keep on going, Bob.
Jane Hultin
Bob continually brought a high level of excellence to his work. As a leader, he pushed the boundaries of landscape architecture while promoting advancement of his whole team. I am proud of his efforts that he applied to addressing his Parkinsons that has helped him preserve his quality of life. This book is another example of Bobs interest in sharing his own achievements so that others can benefit from his hard work.
Ann Christensen, ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects), Chief of Business Development, Managing Principal, DHM Design Corp.
Bob, I was so moved at how many people were blown away by the changes theyve seen in you. Im happy to be a part of your team, but the biggest player here is YOU! Without your determination and dedication to facing this disease head-on every day, you would never have gotten this far. That takes a very strong and motivated person to keep at it day after day and not just take the easy route. Im truly inspired by your progress, and I can only hope I get to work with people as determined as you throughout my career in medicine.
Alana Foeller, Yoga Therapist, Ayurveda Practitioner, and Registered Nurse
I have been Bobs massage therapist on and off since 2005. Upon his diagnosis, Bob appeared to begin having the onset of symptoms associated with Parkinsons, including tremors, cognitive difficulties, and physical difficulties walking. His proactive, holistic approach immediately began improving his overall health. Muscle tone has increased, weight has dropped to normal, and he has virtually no tremors. Along with all this, his strength and stamina have increased and, in turn, resulted in a more youthful and healthy appearance. He seems to be more balanced and jovial. Bob has a new lease on life, and I am thoroughly impressed and convinced this is the direction Parkinsons treatment should be going.
Ashley Rhines, Massage Therapist
Bob, I just read The Parkinsons Playbook , I got chills running up and down my arms as I read the introduction. I loved your book! What a gift this will be to so many people! You are truly a heroic role model...and your Playbook is inspirational providing hope, wisdom, and lessons for how to live life whether you have Parkinsons or not! I hope you go on to speak at seminars and conferences. You have so much to teach doctors, individuals with Parkinsons and their families, and all of us who dont have Parkinsons. Your journal is a must-read!
Melanie Weller M.S., L.C.P.C. (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor)
As Roberts psychologist since 2010, I have witnessed the truly remarkable positive changes he made in his life to deal with the mental and emotional degradation brought on by Parkinsons. After several years of psychotherapy it seemed as if he was becoming younger with each passing day as the rest of us continued to age. Through dedication, self-reflection, and perseverance, he defined a path to a plateau of health from which he refused to stray. I am confident he will never lose sight of the fact that his current elevated level of comprehensive health and wellness is a result of his steadfast efforts and determination. It has been my good fortune to work with an individual possessing such inner strength and commitment.
J. Michael Faragher, Psy.D. CACIII NCGC/BACC
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The Parkinsons Playbook
Text copyright 2017 Robert W. Smith
David Burnett, Bobs Broncos, Bowen Practitioner, International Institute of Bowen Studies. www.bowenstudies.org
Photo Credits
Photos courtesy of the Smith Family:
Robert Smith, Jean Smith, and Natalie Andl.
Yoga pose photos courtesy of Gwen Lawrence.
Bowen and SCENAR photos courtesy of David Burnett.
Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available upon request.
ISBN: 978-1-57826-708-8
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.
Cover and Interior Design by Carolyn Kasper
Printed in the United States
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DISCLAIMER
This book is published with the understanding that the author and publisher are not engaged in rendering medical, health, or any kind of personal professional services in t he book.
The information in this book describes the authors personal journey and is provided in good faith. It should not be considered to be complete or exhaustive regarding the topic it covers, and it is not intended to provide or be a substitute for professional medical or wellness advice or opinion or the basis for diagnosing, treating, curing, or preventing any disease or health condition. The reader should contact, consult, and discuss all medical or wellness issues with a qualified physician or physicians and/or health care professional or professionals familiar with the readers particular circumstances. The information has not been evaluated by any governmental agency, physician, or health care provider or peer reviewed. Its use is entirely at the readers risk.