Ohio Conductor Finds Hope in Deep Brain Stimulation for Managing Parkinson’s Disease

Ohio Conductor Finds Hope in Deep Brain Stimulation for Managing Parkinson’s Disease

An Ohio music conductor is utilizing deep brain stimulation to effectively address his Parkinson’s disease. Rand Laycock, age 70, who serves as the director and conductor of a prominent symphony orchestra, received his diagnosis shortly before turning 60, as reported by the Cleveland Clinic.

Laycock recalls his doctor’s reassurances at the time of diagnosis, stating that a Parkinson’s diagnosis was not equivalent to a death sentence. He was promised advancements in treatment that could significantly enhance his quality of life over the coming years.

Despite adhering to a comprehensive regimen of medications, Laycock observed a continuous progression of his symptoms over an 11-year period. The challenges intensified when tremors in his right hand escalated both in severity and frequency, prompting him to seek alternative treatment options.

He explained, “The tremor would become noticeably worse whenever I faced a deadline related to the orchestra.” This stressor made the situation increasingly difficult for him to manage.

In addition to tremors, he experienced dyskinesias, which are involuntary movements often associated with the long-term use of certain Parkinson’s medications.

Exploring New Treatment Options

Dr. Michal Gostkowski, a neurologist affiliated with the Cleveland Clinic, introduced Laycock to the option of deep brain stimulation. This innovative treatment has been likened to a pacemaker for the brain. Deep brain stimulation involves the implantation of a device that delivers electrical impulses directly to target areas within the brain.

The brain contains billions of neurons that communicate through electrical and chemical signals. Parkinson’s disease can hinder the performance of these neurons, leading to various debilitating symptoms. Deep brain stimulation works by administering electrical current to reactivate these neuronal circuits effectively.

In May 2024, Laycock underwent the initial phase of his treatment when he received a brain implant as part of the deep brain stimulation therapy. Following the surgery, he collaborated with programmer Erica Hennigs to activate and customize the device.

“When programming the device, we initially try different settings,” Hennigs explained. “Adjustments are made during follow-up appointments as we observe how his symptoms respond to the therapy.”

Advancements in Deep Brain Stimulation

After nearly a year of marked improvement, Laycock transitioned to a more advanced form of deep brain stimulation, known as adaptive deep brain stimulation or aDBS.

Traditional deep brain stimulation provides continuous electrical stimulation to the brain, while aDBS stands apart by adapting and fine-tuning this stimulation in real time. Dr. Gostkowski described this process, stating, “By monitoring specific brain frequencies, the device adjusts stimulation levels as necessary to enhance symptom control.”

Laycock presented as an ideal candidate for this advanced therapy, as his symptoms fluctuated throughout the day. The adaptive nature of aDBS promised higher efficacy for his treatment, particularly considering his profession as a conductor.

Hennigs noted that fine-tuning through aDBS would particularly benefit Laycock by minimizing the risk of tremors disrupting his performances, especially if his medication were to wear off during critical moments.

Pleased with his previous success using deep brain stimulation, Laycock eagerly embraced the opportunity to integrate this new technology into his treatment plan. He remarked, “It sounded like it would ease my concerns about constantly adjusting my device settings and medications.”

Transformative Results and a Brighter Future

In March 2025, Laycock began his adaptive deep brain stimulation therapy. Remarkably, his tremors have nearly disappeared, surfacing only during periods of significant stress or anxiety, according to the updates from Cleveland Clinic.

He shared, “My dyskinesia is now well-managed. My symptoms are minimal compared to how they used to be, and adaptive deep brain stimulation has played a substantial role in this positive change.”

As he approaches nearly 47 years of conducting, Laycock expresses excitement about the future, looking forward to spending quality time with his wife, children, and granddaughter.

Encouraging Others to Seek Treatment

Dr. Gostkowski advises other Parkinson’s patients to inquire about deep brain stimulation or aDBS as potential options for managing their symptoms and enhancing their overall quality of life.

Reflecting on his journey, Laycock cautions others that the prospect of brain surgery can seem daunting. However, he emphasizes that it is a life-altering procedure that empowers individuals to reclaim their sense of self.