A little family fun in the sun is just what I needed
A columnist is initially hesitant about a family trip, but all ended well
My husband, John, and I recently embarked on a memorable trip to the Dominican Republic. We’ve been there before, but this year was special: We’d be babysitting our 6-month-old granddaughter for part of the time and enjoying the company of her parents and the sunny and gorgeous Dominican weather.
My daughter had asked us if we’d be interested in accompanying them on the trip, and at first, I wondered how much help we’d be. Because of my Parkinson’s disease, I thought I’d need just as much help as the baby. This is a slight exaggeration, but I think you know what I mean. Parkinson’s can drag you down, both physically and emotionally. The constant tremors, the difficulty in maintaining balance, and the unpredictable nature of the disease can make even simple tasks — like picking up a squirmy baby — challenging.
About a year or so after my Parkinson’s diagnosis, my sister and I had gone to the same resort that we went to this year. We had a ton of fun, but one night, when we went out for dinner at one of those restaurants with a huge grill that customers sit around for a meal and a show, my sister and I both noticed that the man sitting beside her had a tremor just like mine! My big sister thought he was imitating me, so being the protective one, she was ticked off and giving him the stink eye. I hesitated and then asked, “Do you have Parkinson’s? Because I do, and we have very similar tremors.”
“Yes,” he replied.
He and his wife were from Quebec, so we had a stilted but pleasant conversation, as their first language was French. Even though my sister and I grew up in Quebec, our French isn’t very good. We chatted about the disease, boxing, and medications. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I should say anything to him, but I was glad I did. It’s nice to connect with others, even over a disease. Feeling like you are alone is the worst.
Last year, John and I took a road trip in Portugal, which involved lots of driving and staying in different places. I couldn’t face the anxiety of a trip like that again this year, so a resort made perfect sense. Plus, the bonus of seeing our granddaughter every day for a solid week made this trip a genius idea.
It truly was a delightful time. It was a joy to see our daughter and her husband work as a team to be wonderful parents, and it was a privilege to be able to step in whenever they asked. John — aka Gramps — made certain I was always comfortable with the baby and would quickly come to the rescue if she was getting too heavy or wiggly for me to hold.
Love and support abounded — for everyone, young and old — and I never felt like I was alone. Our family bond was a source of strength and comfort, and I can’t wait to go back next year to chase a toddler around!
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
James E Skylis
I enjoyed your article. I can relate to it because I am scheduled to attend my daughters wedding in Spain this October, and I am feeling anxious. So I find your travel experience encouraging. Jim
Christine Scheer
Hi Jim, Yes, I experience a lot of anxiety before a trip, however once we are there, Parkinson's isn't the main event, and that seems to help a bit. This trip was the first time I thought that I should've probably had a wheel chair for the airport, however.I hope you have a wonderful experience! All my best, Christine