Larry Gifford

Larry Gifford is a seasoned media professional and Parkinson’s disease advocate whose career spans over three decades in radio, TV, and podcasting. He has held prominent roles at major networks, including ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, 710 ESPN in Los Angeles, KIRO in Seattle, and CKNW in Vancouver. Additionally, he served as the National Director of Talk Radio for Corus Entertainment in Canada .

In 2017, at the age of 45, Larry was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease. This pivotal moment led him to merge his broadcasting expertise with advocacy, resulting in the launch of the podcast When Life Gives You Parkinson’s in 2018. The podcast offers an intimate look into his personal journey with the disease and features conversations with fellow patients, caregivers, researchers, and healthcare professionals. Co-hosted initially by radio personality Niki Reitmayer and later by his wife, Rebecca Gifford, the show ran for 124 episodes until its conclusion in March 2024 .

Beyond his podcast, Larry co-founded the PD Avengers in 2020, a global alliance committed to ending Parkinson’s disease. Inspired by the book Ending Parkinson’s Disease, the organization aims to amplify the voices of those affected and drive urgent action towards a cure .

Larry's advocacy extends to his roles on the Michael J. Fox Foundation Patient Council and the Editorial Board of the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. He has also contributed to significant publications, including articles in JAMA Neurology and NPJ Parkinson’s Disease.

In recognition of his impactful work, Larry was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in November 2024, honoring his significant contributions to the Parkinson's community in Canada and globally.

Larry, along with his wife Rebecca and their son Henry, resides in Vancouver, British Columbia.