Kirk Neff Shares his Essential Tremor Story

Change is possible’: CTV News cameraman describes overwhelming response after sharing his story

It’s amazing how life has a way of falling into place, not just in other people’s lives, but in your own.
As a cinematographer and storyteller, I’ve spent more than 30 years telling other people’s stories. But when you suddenly become the focus, and your journey gives others hope, it’s a feeling that’s impossible to describe.
More than a year ago, I was told that surgery could fix my essential tremors. After living with it my entire career, the idea that I could finally steady my hands was unbelievable. I’m 54, my symptoms were getting worse and I wasn’t ready to give up what I love doing.

Kirk's Journey Part 1

Kirk's Journey Part 2

Kirk's Journey Part 3

When CTV News told me they would like to tell my story, I didn’t expect to receive such an overwhelming response! Messages from friends, colleagues and complete strangers, all of whom live with the same condition or know someone who does.

Kirk Neff shares his story of DBS for Essential Tremor.

For decades, I’ve filmed stories that teach me something new, every single day. But when people tell me my story gave them hope, that there is a fix, it hits differently. Essential tremors isn’t talked about as much as Parkinson’s disease, yet I’ve learned in the last few days that so many people quietly live with it I’m finding out.
The day before my surgery, I tried to talk myself out of it. I told my wife, “I think I’m fine, maybe I don’t need this.” But the truth was, I was scared and nervous. It’s your brain, it’s not a broken leg.
Deep down, I knew I had to do it, because if there’s a chance to keep doing what you love, you take it.
The morning after surgery, I picked up a bowl of soup with my left hand – the one they operated on – and for the first time, it didn’t shake. I could hold a hot drink without spilling it.
It felt like a new beginning.

Kirk Neff shares his Essential Tremor journey with DBS.

Since my story aired on CTV National News with Omar Sachedina, I’ve been flooded with messages: parents of kids with tremors, adults who have quietly suffered for years. Even though I can’t fix everyone, sharing my experience gives people hope that change is possible.
So far, I’ve only had one part of my brain treated for my left hand, but soon they will go back in for the right one. Each day, I’m reminded of how lucky I am.
For years, I thought my story was “everyone’s but mine.” Now I realize my story might be helping others find their own strength.