Episodes

Episode 1 – Plan, Prepare, Go: A Travel Guide for Parkinson’s

Travel with Parkinson’s might take a little more planning — but it’s absolutely possible, and absolutely worth it. In this episode, Maria and Vicky are joined by Emma Bracher, an occupational therapist with brilliant insights into empowering people with Parkinson’s to live life to the full. They dive into the realities of travelling with a Parkinson’s diagnosis — the challenges, the anxieties, and the moments that remind you why it’s all worthwhile.

From managing medication across time zones and keeping it safely in your hand luggage, to navigating airports and public transport with confidence, Emma and the team share practical, reassuring advice for every stage of the journey. They also explore coping strategies for freezing episodes, the importance of staying hydrated, why declaring your Parkinson’s on travel insurance really matters, and how a simple letter from your healthcare provider can make a world of difference.

But it’s not all logistics — this episode is full of warmth, humour, and personal stories that speak honestly to what it feels like to travel when your body doesn’t always play ball. Whether you’re dreaming of a long-haul adventure or just wondering how to manage a day trip, Maria, Vicky and Emma want you to know: don’t let fear hold you back. Plan, prepare — and then go enjoy your holiday.

Useful Links & Resources

  • Parkinson’s UK — Support, information and resources for everyone affected by Parkinson’s
  • Parkinson’s UK Travel Card — A wallet card explaining your condition to others
  • Hidden Disabilities Sunflower — Lanyards and personalised cards for hidden conditions including Parkinson’s
  • Bigger & Better — Emma Bracher’s exercise and therapy service for people with Parkinson’s in South Warwickshire and the West Midlands
  • Emma’s Holiday Checklist — Emma is putting together a travel checklist specifically for people with Parkinson’s (link to be added when available)

Timecodes

  • 0:39 — Maria and Vicky introduce the podcast and their mission
  • 3:10 — Series overview and introducing guest Emma Bracher
  • 6:17 — Emma’s background: 22 years in neuro rehab and founding Bigger & Better
  • 10:18 — Why travel is particularly challenging with Parkinson’s
  • 13:45 — The golden rule: plan, plan, plan — and always allow extra time
  • 14:51 — Parkinson’s UK cards and Hidden Disability Sunflower lanyards
  • 17:07 — Raising public awareness of Parkinson’s beyond the tremor
  • 19:52 — Special assistance at airports and train stations: why you should use it
  • 21:52 — Staying well on the move: hydration, keeping legs raised, and moving around
  • 22:38 — Coping with freezing episodes: strategies that work
  • 25:37 — How to help someone who’s freezing — and when not to
  • 31:15 — Managing medication across time zones
  • 35:23 — Travelling with young-onset Parkinson’s and a young family
  • 37:28 — Hydration, DVT risk, and exercises on long-haul flights
  • 39:29 — Car journeys: planning stops and managing long distances
  • 40:34 — Always carry medication in hand luggage — and take more than you need
  • 42:57 — Travel insurance: always declare your Parkinson’s
  • 44:26 — Clothing tips: layers and easy temperature regulation
  • 45:51 — Final message: don’t let Parkinson’s stop you from travelling
  • 49:55 — Preview of Episode 2: Deep Brain Stimulation with Joe Tosh and Coohan Yay