Columns

Decluttering and downsizing are often associated with simplifying, in line with the concept “less is more.” Both may be necessary as we continue our journey with Parkinson’s disease. But there’s a third D-word missing: difficult. My oldest son said, “Downsize now because you want to do it together. Don’t…

Few things enable personal freedom as much as a car. When you live in the great automotive state of Michigan, just a short one-hour drive from the headquarters of companies like Ford and General Motors, this reality seems even starker. People use vehicles to go to the grocery store, church,…

I used to develop workaround rehab models to help folks recover from traumatic brain injury. They were needed to circumvent the damaged areas of the brain and to make new neural pathways. Currently, I’m applying that same approach to my own rehabilitation with Parkinson’s disease. My model places…

I admit it. We are cat people. Cats are more suitable companions for our lifestyle, particularly given the constraints of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Petie is my familiar, and Squeaker is Mrs. Dr. C’s snuggle pal. Relationships with cats are special, especially for anyone with a chronic illness like…

I often get asked if a person can drive after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The answer is yes. Some are able to drive for many years after a diagnosis. However, we must consider the safety of everyone on the road, including ourselves. The last thing we want is…

In May 2020, Parkinson’s News Today‘s Joana Carvalho wrote about a study published in the journal eLife. The study describes a new tool that would allow scientists to study the effects of mitochondrial damage, which could ultimately help restore neuron function in people with neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease.

I published my first column with Parkinson’s News Today in April 2019, confiding in readers about my dad’s struggle with Parkinson’s disease. Since then, I’ve written more than 60 columns, telling stories and sharing information I’ve learned. I’m rather proud to have looked Parkinson’s in the eyes so…

Parkinson’s is a progressive illness. It’s continually changing the brain and body as we grow older. Along with changes from my Parkinson’s, my brain is also changing in response to its “owner’s” demands. I’ve proposed that it’s possible to use this natural neuroplasticity to slow the progression of…

Many of us have likely said, “Oh, my aching feet,” especially after a long walk, run, or hike. As we age, our strength and agility decrease, increasing our chances of experiencing muscle soreness and stiffness. For people with Parkinson’s disease (PD), balance, walking, and gait issues are usually significant because…

Resilience is the single best predictor of success in life and in building sanctuary. When you live in a tornado-prone area, building a garden sanctuary can be risky. Spring is the time to revitalize from winter. My garden sanctuary uplifts my soul with vibrant blooms. It was built one…