How I’m finding my voice and using it to help others
Through 'The Bright Side,' I'm exploring my journey as a writer
As a young girl growing up in the 1970s, reading was my favorite pastime. We had no cellphones, internet, or Snapchat then, and only three TV channels via a rabbit-ear antenna. So I read a lot. I loved Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary and read almost any book I could find at the library.
When I had children of my own, reading to them was my top priority. We’d cozy up under blankets and read together every chance we had. I’d hoped to pass on my passion for reading to my kids as they grew up in our complicated digital world.
Because of my love for reading, I’ve always wanted to try my hand at writing, too. After my husband, Arman, was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease, I figured it was time to begin writing a book, as I finally had an interesting topic to write about. After completing the first few chapters, however, I realized that writing a book wasn’t so easy. I eventually abandoned my so-called “book” and saved the file on my computer, hoping to return to it later.
Exploring my voice and message
Years later, I stumbled upon a writing opportunity at my favorite Parkinson’s disease resource: Parkinson’s News Today. Before my interview, they asked me for a writing sample. So I dusted off my old, retired laptop and found the “book” I’d begun nearly 10 years before. I used the introduction to it as my writing sample and managed to snag the job.
While I was excited about the opportunity, I was also feeling skeptical about opening up to the world about my family’s experiences with Parkinson’s disease. I didn’t want my husband or children to feel like their lives were on display. I try to be mindful of this concern when writing my column, “The Bright Side.”
I had a few goals when I began. The first was to give all columns a positive spin, which is how we live our lives. For us, it’s the only way to live. I know that this attitude will become more challenging as Parkinson’s progresses, but we’ll do our best. Being positive and looking for the bright side of every situation are the keys to our happy existence. I want to inspire others to look for the bright side, too.
I hope to help others by providing useful information about caregiving. I’ve learned a lot in the 15 years since Arman’s diagnosis, and I want to share my insights and experiences. Some of my tips and tricks might work for some and not for others, but I feel that if I can help out one person, that’s worth its weight in gold.
Being a young family dealing with an early-onset diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is particularly difficult, and I hope to be a resource and support for struggling families. When Arman was diagnosed at the young age of 38, I recall feeling hopeless, helpless, and very alone. I hope that young individuals and families who read my column know they’re not alone, and that others are struggling with similar issues.
I recently read a quote by Stephen R. Covey, author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” that helped me reflect on my current path as a writer and my journey that lies ahead: “Find your voice and inspire others to find theirs.”
I’ve found my voice, and I’m lucky to share my experiences with the world through Parkinson’s News Today. (Yes, I have readers from all over the world!) Thanks for reading, and I hope that I can inspire you to find the bright side of every day.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
About the Author
Bruce P Ballard
I, too, found that having PD gave me something to write about, which also opened doors for me, Soon after my diagnosis in 2012, I started a blog, www.parkingsuns,com, and shortly after that the World Parkinson Congress asked me to be one of their official bloggers. I was introduced to all sorts of interesting people, and I learned so much along the way. Eventually I did write a book ("Invitations") that is now in print and getting terrific reviews. I'm proud and happy for all these writing opportunities, and wish the best for anyone else who chooses to pick up a pen (or turn on their laptop) and write about their life with PD. - Bruce
Mary Riga
I glanced at your blog as a Neurologist.
Jamie Askari
Hi Bruce! I will check out your blog, thanks for sharing. That is so very exciting, congratulations on your success! I will also get a copy of your book. Thanks for reading and sharing.
Mary Riga
As a neurologist in Europe,i find the blogs very informative,cause ppl explain so much more and have the time to chat.We doctors as much as we rely on history exams and clinical evaluation we miss sth everytime
Jamie Askari
Hi Mary! This is such a great point that you bring up, and I am happy that reading these columns is helpful. Thanks so much for reading!
Elaine Griffiths
I will also make an effort to read your book and your blog it sounds as if you have found an optomistic angle that should guide me into a continuing positive attitude of mind
Bruce P Ballard
Wow - the great thing about articles like Jamie's above is that people can read it, then write their responses, starting a whole new conversation. I think we need more of this, especially in back-and-forths between people with PD and doctors/researchers. The only problem may be for Parkies who have a hard time typing, which is something I struggle with. I don't think you'll find many (any?) typos here, but for almost 50% of the words in this response, my cursor had to backtrack to fix something.
At any rate, thanks to everyone who kept the talk flowing.
- Bruce
Jamie Askari
Hi Bruce, I agree! Please continue to comment and open up a conversation. And try not to worry too much about the typos, we get it!