Meeting Gary for the first time is like being welcomed as a friend. He’s easy to be be with and you soon forget that you’re surrounded by a successful business that he and his wife Jane have built. And it’s impressive, with it’s hustle and bustle of staff and customers enjoying a “to die for” sweeping view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Gary has a lot to do, he always has. He’s not in a hurry, he just gets on with making things happen in his own calm and thoughtful way. Life still has surprises though and getting Parkinson’s was one hell of a surprise!

But being a stand-up comedian as well as a top hairdresser, this actually gave Gary something else with which to work. Initially worried that his diagnosis may affect his public face and chip away at his leadership skills, Gary took control of the disease and now uses it in both stand-up and on the corporate stage. Getting 60 hair dresser executives to lie on the ground, kicking their legs in the air and moaning – as a serious way to balance their brains – who’s laughing now?

Gary is ready to step up to the microphone like he always has but this time he’s giving it just that little bit more.

Without question, being diagnosed with an incurable disease is devastating. It’s life changing and mercilessly confronting, but it does trigger deep resources that lie within. It dawned upon Gary to live with the disease will be like acting out a part in a play. Each challenge would require a script and a performance.

He had this idea because running a business, presenting at trade events and leading his staff already called upon his early standup comedy days. Now he’s performing his best act yet.

The curtain is well and truly raised.

Source: It’s Not Funny