Ohio Music Conductor Finds Relief from Parkinson’s with Advanced Brain Stimulation
Rand Laycock, a 70-year-old music conductor from Ohio, is orchestrating a new chapter in his life, thanks to a cutting-edge medical intervention for Parkinson’s disease. Laycock, who has dedicated nearly five decades to conducting symphony orchestras, received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s shortly before his 60th birthday. This diagnosis initially cast a shadow over his passion, but recent advancements in medical technology have allowed him to regain control and continue his musical journey.
Upon receiving his diagnosis, Laycock was reassured by his doctor that advancements in treatment were on the horizon. True to this prediction, the field of Parkinson’s treatment has evolved significantly in the intervening years. Despite a regimen of medications, Laycock’s symptoms gradually progressed over the following eleven years. The tremors in his right hand became more pronounced and frequent, particularly when facing deadlines with the orchestra. These tremors significantly impacted his ability to conduct and maintain the precision demanded by his craft.
In addition to the tremors, Laycock also experienced dyskinesias, involuntary movements that can occur as a side effect of long-term use of certain Parkinson’s medications. These dyskinesias further complicated his condition and added to his challenges. Recognizing the limitations of medication alone, Laycock began exploring alternative treatment options.
Dr. Michal Gostkowski, a neurologist at Cleveland Clinic, introduced Laycock to the possibility of deep brain stimulation (DBS), a technique often described as a "pacemaker for the brain." DBS involves implanting a device that delivers electrical currents directly to specific areas of the brain. The brain is a complex network of billions of neurons, which communicate through electrical and chemical signals. Parkinson’s disease can disrupt these signals, leading to reduced neuronal activity and the characteristic symptoms of the condition.
DBS works by applying electrical currents to stimulate these neurons, effectively boosting their activity and mitigating the effects of Parkinson’s. In May 2024, Laycock underwent surgery to implant the DBS device, marking the first step in this innovative therapy. Following the implantation, he worked with programmer Erica Hennigs to activate and fine-tune the device settings.
The programming process involves careful adjustments to identify the optimal stimulation parameters for each patient. Hennigs explained that they initially experiment with different settings and then refine them during follow-up visits based on how well the symptoms are controlled. This personalized approach is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of DBS.
After experiencing significant improvement with traditional DBS for nearly a year, Laycock progressed to a more advanced form of the therapy called adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS). Traditional DBS delivers constant stimulation to the brain 24 hours a day. aDBS, on the other hand, offers a dynamic approach by adapting and fine-tuning the stimulation in real time.
Dr. Gostkowski highlighted that aDBS tracks specific frequencies in the brain and adjusts the stimulation accordingly. This adaptive capability allows the device to increase or decrease stimulation as needed, providing more precise control over symptoms. Laycock was deemed an ideal candidate for aDBS because his symptoms fluctuated throughout the day. A treatment that could adapt to these fluctuations held the promise of being more effective than a static stimulation approach.
Hennigs emphasized the benefits of aDBS for a music conductor like Laycock. The fine-tuning capabilities of aDBS could reduce the risk of tremors if his medication were to wear off during a concert or performance. This level of control is essential for maintaining the precision and composure required for his profession.
Laycock embraced the opportunity to receive aDBS, encouraged by his previous positive experience with DBS. He expressed his belief that it would simplify his life by reducing the need for frequent adjustments to his device settings and medications. Fortunately, Laycock’s existing implanted device was compatible with the new adaptive technology, allowing him to upgrade the settings in collaboration with Hennigs.
Laycock began receiving aDBS in March 2025, and the results have been remarkable. His tremors are now almost completely gone, except during times of extreme stress or anxiety. Additionally, his dyskinesia is well under control. He attributes these improvements to adaptive deep brain stimulation, stating that his symptoms are minimal compared to what they once were.
With his symptoms significantly reduced, Laycock is looking forward to his 47th year as a music conductor. He also cherishes the opportunity to spend quality time with his wife, two children, and granddaughter.
Dr. Gostkowski encourages Parkinson’s patients to discuss DBS or aDBS with their doctors as potential options for managing symptoms and enhancing their quality of life. Laycock echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that the prospect of brain surgery can be daunting. However, he emphasizes that it is a life-changing procedure that can enable individuals to regain their sense of self. The advanced treatment has not only allowed him to continue his career but has also restored a sense of normalcy and control in his life.
