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My clinical training is in helping people recover from brain injury. After receiving my Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis and reading that scientists believe the disease is linked to the destruction of dopamine-producing neurons, I began thinking of Parkinson’s as a brain injury. While working with brain injury patients, I’d…

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” I’m sure many of you recognize that quote from Shakespeare. If you don’t, no big deal, just blame it on the Parkinson’s. But how in the world does theatrical performance have anything to do with Parkinson’s? How will Shakespeare help me in my…

When the Michael J. Fox Foundation and DNA-testing company 23andMe collaborated to gather genetic data for Parkinson’s research, I quickly signed up. Using 23andMe’s service would allow me to both learn about my ancestry and contribute to important research. It was a win for everyone. But I…

When my older sister, Bev, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019, visited me last winter to escape Ohio’s frigid temps and snow, and to receive some dental work in sunny Arizona where I live, I noticed some definite changes in her. She is…

Q: “What instructions do they not need to put on Parkinson’s medications?” A: “Shake well before use.” Q: “How do you greet a person with Parkinson’s?” A: “What’s shakin’?” Corny, I know, but you probably cracked at least a small…

It is disappointing that medical marijuana is not among the first line of treatments a provider suggests for Parkinson’s disease, particularly when one is using federally sponsored medical services. But that is changing. It is a new world for medical marijuana, a treatment that both patients and providers are…

“Parkinson’s? What is that? I can’t get that, I’m too young.” When I was growing up, my parents often told me I was born in the wrong decade. I had more hair than my petite frame could handle, and it often turned into a complete frizz ball. Like my friends,…

“Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” – Michael J. Fox  “Love the people that have been given to you. … Love your family.” – Fr. Mike Schmitz There you have it. One quote from a celebrity and one from a Catholic priest. Both are short…

“The camaraderie between the athletes is a joy to behold sometimes, because they all help each other along.” – William Regal Exercise is an effective way to slow Parkinson’s disease progression and provide symptom relief. In 2017, I began participating in the Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) program…

I used to bound out of bed, my internal well of resources fully refreshed, ready to tackle anything the day presented. Not anymore. The old well ain’t what she used to be. With Parkinson’s disease, I don’t sleep well. Despite my best efforts, I don’t start the day with…