Doug T.

Age: 63, Parkinson's Disease

What helped you decide to pursue Medtronic DBS Therapy?

My own investigations and talking with my physician and my Medtronic representative. I also searched extensively on the internet.

What Daily Victories have you achieved since receiving Medtronic DBS Therapy? What is life like with DBS Therapy? How has your therapy impacted those around you?

NO TREMORS!! I can work everyday and use my computer mouse without banging it on the desk. I can now go back to public speaking.

What has been most challenging in receiving Medtronic DBS Therapy?

Making the decision to do it and moving forward. No problems.

How has your neurologist (or other physician) helped with DBS Therapy?

My physician and my Medtronic rep have been excellent. I am now off all combo Levo Dopa.

What advice do you have for others who are considering Medtronic DBS Therapy?

If you are a candidate, do not waste another day. Do it now; it works.

Medtronic invited this patient to share his story candidly. Not everyone who receives Medtronic DBS Therapy will receive the same results as the individual in this story; some people may experience significant symptom relief from DBS Therapy, and others may experience minimal symptom relief. Talk to your doctor to determine if Medtronic DBS Therapy is right for you.

DBS Therapy requires brain surgery. Risks of brain surgery may include serious complications such as coma, bleeding inside the brain, seizures and infection. Some of these may be fatal. Once implanted, the system may become infected, parts may wear through your skin, and the lead or lead/extension connector may move. Medtronic DBS Therapy could stop suddenly because of mechanical or electrical problems. Any of these situations may require additional surgery or cause your symptoms to return.

Medtronic DBS Therapy may cause worsening of some motor symptoms associated with your movement disorder, and may cause speech and language impairments. Stimulation parameters may be adjusted to minimize side effects and attain maximum symptom control. In patients receiving Medtronic DBS Therapy, depression, suicidal thoughts and suicide have been reported. Occurence of "fall" has also been reported in patients with Parkinson's disease.

This therapy is not for everyone. Please consult your physician. A prescription is required. For a complete list of adverse events that have been associated with the therapy, please refer to Important Safety Information.