Former Rockie Beats The Odds, Gets His Life Back

Ben Petrick Battles Parkinson's Disease

April 25, 2011 10:01 AM

Ben Petrick with his wife Kelly (credit: CBS)

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(CBS4) – When Ben Petrick began as a rookie for the Colorado Rockies in 1999 his future looked bright. Rockies team leaders thought he was the kind of player who could hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in the same season.

Unfortunately it never worked out for Petrick, and now we know why.

After five seasons in the major leagues it became clear he was beginning a struggle with Parkinson’s Disease.

“I knew that I could feel myself not doing what my body wanted to do. And I knew it was just a matter of time,” he said.

In 2009 Petrick underwent a surgical procedure that failed after a dangerous infection set in. Then, last November, he tried another surgery.

With the procedure — deep brain stimulation — doctors implant two electrodes inside the patient’s brain to target the area that controls movement. A device that gets implanted in the patient’s chest transmits signals to the electrodes.

Petrick says he now feels a new sense of control over his body. He describes it as a “glimmer of hope.”

He’s gained weight and cut his medication nearly in half.

Former Rockie Beats The Odds, Gets His Life Back

Cheryl Siefert

Excellent heartwarming story about Ben Petrick and the success he expereinced with DBS surgery. Locally, we have exceptional resources for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their famileis. I would iencourage Coloradoans to contact the Parkinson Association of the Rockies for information, resources, education and referrals regarding Parkinson’s disease.
http://www.parkinsonrockies.org or call 303-830-1839.
Laura Fiske

Thanks for sharing Ben Petrick’s inspiring story about the remarkable advances being made in treating Parkinson’s Disease. If you’d like to help with these efforts, please consider participating in the “Pedaling 4 Parkinson’s” benefit bicycle ride, June 4, 2011, in Denver. All proceeds of this ride will go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. For more information, and to register for the ride, go to: http://www.34fighting.org
Gary Deveraux

I have known Ben since he was a kid. He and my son, Ted, grew up going to the same school and playing soports together baseball, football, track. Even then I knew Ben was an outstanding individual, he gave his all. Ben got this from his parents, they to are wonderful people. This story and Ben’s faith in GOD, just goes to show how strong and committed Ben is to his family and his faith in Our Lord. I am very proud to say that I know Ben personally!!! Gary Deveraux.