Riding the rapids of young-onset Parkinson's (YOPD) | Jo Tosh | TEDxWarrington

Jo Tosh shares her story of being diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s (YOPD) when she was just 47 years old. A former cardiology nurse and principal lecturer, Jo discusses diagnosis, a surgical treatment called deep brain stimulation (DBS), and finding her tribe, whilst navigating the many challenges of this incurable condition from a female perspective - some big, some small, and some absolutely huge. Jo Tosh is a former cardiology nurse and principal lecturer who now blogs and campaigns for Parkinson’s.
Jo was diagnosed with Parkinson’s when she was just 47 years old. Now 55, she has recently undergone a surgical treatment called deep brain stimulation (DBS). Jo’s journey to DBS was documented through a mini-series by Parkinson’s which was nominated and awarded the People's Choice Award at the 2023 Smiley Movement Charity Film Awards.
In 2022, Jo was recognised for her work at the Inspiring Women Awards where she was awarded the Mo Mowlam Award and the Inspiring Others Award. Following her surgery, Jo now spends her time raising awareness of Young Onset Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s and DBS through her social media, presentations and keynote speeches.
Based in the North East of England, she has two daughters, a large loving family and an amazing group of friends who support her. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@jpurnawan]

Thank you for sharing this jo,,, u are one true warrior. This talk is very helpful...

[@MarkInThePark21]

Jo, you are an amazing inspiration and a source of strength to the Parkinson's community worldwide!

[@KateTrafford]

Such a heartfelt, insightful and unexpectedly funny talk. Thank you for sharing your journey with such openness, compassion and authentic advocacy. You’re an incredible ambassador for the YOPD community, Jo, and I hope this video of your talk will be widely and enthusiastically shared.

[@racheltabler8416]

You did your community proud!! Way to go! Beautifully delivered and so educational. And you look stunning. ❤🤩

[@jackieheyes7517]

Thank you Jo your Instagram posts and collaboration with Parkinsons UK shined a light on DBS and I thank you for that.

[@coleclan]

Amazing Jo, you conveyed your journey brilliantly.

[@user-vu2jh2hs8t]

A moving and beautiful talk. It made me laugh it made me cry.Keep up the good work as a voice for those with YOPD.

[@suehumpage8269]

A bespoke shitshow is the most perfect way to describe it! Fantastic talk, you were the first person I connected with after diagnosis, and like you decided to I needed to find my tribe, which I did by setting up my own support group. We are stronger together 💪🏼🥰

[@stephenedwards9382]

So inspirational, amazing story and such a strong women. You should be so proud of yourself 💪🏼

[@helenaericsson3266]

You’re such an inspiring person and thank you for sharing your story. ♥️

[@sharonmaplethorpe9168]

You are such a gem! That is an amazing concise and accurate commentary of what so many people are dealing with. You spoke beautifully and looked stunning ❤xx

[@itslanky]

So proud of you, Jo! Within the darkest of places, there will always be a way to find the light, you are amazing and I'm so happy for you!

[@joyaldren989]

Thanks so much Kole ✨️

[@missheidi821]

Thank you for sharing your journey. In doing so, I know I am not alone and belong to a brilliant, shakey tribe!

[@PaoloRebora-ef9tm]

Jo, you are a very special woman. X Paolo

[@clairebennett2205]

Thanks so much Jo, am sharing this with my mum who was diagnosed when she was 60, it's been a rollercoaster, a few rapids and too many waterfall moments and I know she will value your words greatly, as do I her daughter who can only imagine the strength it takes to endure. So much respect for you being that much needed voice!

[@shafaqali2654]

Absolutely brilliant Jo - you superstar! X

[@dianaprice8070]

Well said, tho not as bad as

[@user-nc6fc5wd3d]

You seem a nice person - good luck though Im afraid you disconnected me a little by trying to separate women from men and referring to an old mans disease. Ive come to know many lovely female and male pd sufferers, we are all suffering the same 'shitshow' but it unites rather than divides us.

[@ziontours5893]

They say predominantly men get Parkinson's. If her figures are correct and 4 million women have PD, I've heard that 10 million people around the world suffer from it. That means that 6 million men have it.