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Day One:
The Parkinson's Prison
and the Hero's Journey to escape!

The Shawshank Redemption is thought by many to be one of the greatest films of all time. In the Day One program, we share Andy and Red's journey like you've never seen it before - even if you've watched it hundreds of times. Because this time, you'll see how Andy's greatest gift of hope is for you, too.

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"This course surpassed the benefits of therapy.

Within a secure environment, we could express our reflections and emotions regarding the challenge of facing Parkinson's disease and navigate through the spectrum of feelings from day one (the day of diagnosis) to the present.

My ability to speak has been hindered by Spasmodic Dysphonia (throat dystonia), causing my voice to tense up in the middle of a sentence. This issue posed a professional obstacle, preventing me from articulating effectively on my own successful podcast. However, through this course, led by Dr. Robert Cochrane, I came to the realization that even if I were to lose my voice, I could always rely on writing. This revelation significantly boosted my confidence."

- Michael Quaglia

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Make Today Day One For You

This new, evidence-based, clinically-tested writing program is open to people with PD, their care partners, family members, and friends. We meet online for 90 minutes, once per week over the course of 16 weeks. Participants will write one page per week about their experience and share it on a password-protected Google Drive with classmates. Each participant is also expected to read and leave feedback on two of their fellow classmates pages as this is an ensemble-based program. We will start each session by moving to music that is themed to the stage of the Hero's Journey, then play improvisation games that support our growth, understanding and connection to one another. We will also watch clips from The Shawshank Redemption that demonstrate the Hero's Journey. All sessions will be recorded so that students who have to miss a session at its scheduled time can catch up at their convenience. 

Perry H., AZ

I would describe Dr. Robert's class as fun, challenging, imagination stretching, and deeply emotional. The Doc is amazing. I have surprised myself when I look over my own weekly assignments.

Shabbir L., CA

I think the most valuable thing I have learned is how much more of a  storyteller I am than I thought I was. 

The story telling, using metaphors, helps tremendously. They allow me to be more free to express my emotions. This has helped me to experience more freedom.

Stacy K., Italy

The Day One program has dramatically changed my life and reminded me of who I really am, what I’m made of, and where I want to go.

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Research & Stories on Shawshank and the Parkinson's Prison

"I'm a prisoner in my own body," Muhammad Ali

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