Bobby Krause, Founder of the Be Still Foundation, recently joined The People’s Pharmacy Podcast to share his personal journey as a Parkinson’s patient who found renewed hope through focused ultrasound treatment. During the episode titled “Using Focused Ultrasound Against Parkinson Disease and Tremor,” the first half of the podcast is with Neal F. Kassell, MD is the founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and in the second half of the episode Bobby opens up about his life before treatment, what the procedure entailed, and the impact it had on his everyday experiences.
Receiving the Diagnosis at 42
At just 42, Bobby was shocked to hear the diagnosis of “young-onset Parkinson disease.” Suddenly, his normal life was overshadowed by managing symptoms, dealing with side effects, and grappling with fears about what lay ahead. While medications offered some relief, they brought their own hurdles, and Bobby felt his world shrinking—especially as a dad wanting to keep up with his kids.
On the podcast, he candidly describes those initial years: the tremors, stiffness, frustration, and the heavy emotional weight of feeling “too young” to face a progressive neurological disorder. His raw honesty makes his story resonate with other patients and families facing similar challenges.
A New Hope with Focused Ultrasound
Everything changed when Bobby discovered focused ultrasound, a noninvasive treatment that employs targeted sound waves deep within the brain to alleviate tremors and other movement-related symptoms. There are no incisions or radiation involved—just precisely aimed energy guided by MRI technology.
In the episode, Bobby reflects on the moment he realized this could be a viable solution for him. After years of research and staying informed about the latest treatments, he found focused ultrasound to be nearly unbelievable. However, the solid science behind it and the patient testimonials convinced him to give it a shot.
The Treatment Experience and Its Impact
Bobby eventually qualified for the focused ultrasound treatment and experienced the procedure firsthand—not just as an advocate reading about it online. He walks listeners through what that day was like: the preparations, time spent in the MRI, the support team surrounding him, and the mix of nerves and optimism.
The most poignant part of his story is what happened afterward. Bobby describes the near-instant changes he felt—the tremors subsiding, the tension easing, and the sensation of regaining control over his body after years of struggle. Simple actions, like holding a cup, writing, or hugging his children without fear of a shaky hand, became possible once again.
Turning Experience into Action
Instead of going back to life as usual after this transformative experience, Bobby felt compelled to launch the Be Still Foundation. He explains how that pivotal moment—transitioning from fear and limitations to real, visible improvements—inspired him to help others discover options they may not even be aware of.
The Be Still Foundation was born from that mission: to support individuals living with essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease, raise awareness about focused ultrasound and other promising treatments, and help eliminate the financial and informational barriers that separate patients from care. When Bobby speaks about the foundation, it’s clear how deeply personal it is—this is not just a job for him; it’s a reflection of his life’s journey.
A Conversation Full of Hope
For anyone dealing with Parkinson’s or essential tremor—or supporting someone who is—Bobby’s story serves as a powerful reminder that they aren’t alone and that treatment options are evolving. While focused ultrasound isn’t the right solution for everyone and doesn’t promise a cure, Bobby’s account of its impact makes the possibilities feel a bit more real.
At the Be Still Foundation, we’re thankful that Bobby’s voice is connecting with more people through The People’s Pharmacy. His journey as a patient, founder, and advocate is precisely why our mission exists: to ensure more families hear “You have options,” and truly believe it.