Parkinson’s may slow me down, but the journey is still enjoyable

Even though I can still drive, I always welcome the offer of a drive somewhere by somebody else. It’s not just about the convenience but the companionship that comes with it.

Usually, it’s my husband, John, but often, it’s our good friends and neighbors who step in. Their patience and understanding make the journey easier and more enjoyable. I also like that they usually laugh at my jokes.

I know I’m a slowpoke, which I blame on bradykinesia due to Parkinson’s disease. I need lots of time to walk to the car, get in, and get settled. Trying to rush me doesn’t work.

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I remember when it wasn’t like that, in those days before I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. I never thought the walk to the car, which is usually parked about 20 yards from the house, would be such an onerous journey. Usually, by the time I’ve reached the car, John is waiting for me, even if he left the house after me. When I get there, I slowly lower myself into the passenger seat and get organized. OK! That took an extra five to 10 minutes.

It can be frustrating at times, but I’ve learned to take it in stride.

When we’ve reached our destination, getting out is like doing the Hokey Pokey. I put my right foot out, think about it for a minute, then put my left foot out, and make my first attempt to stand up. Oops, let’s try that again. This time, swing both feet at the same time, out they go, and I’m up!

By now, I’ve ruined the back of whatever pants I’m wearing by leaning into the car. We live on a farm with gravel roads, so the vehicle is rarely clean; at best, it’s dusty, and at worst, it’s coated in a layer of mud. There is no avoiding the dirt. But hey, it’s all part of the adventure, and I find joy and humor in these moments, making the journey more enjoyable for everyone.

Often, our neighbors will drive when we go out for dinner. At those times, John helps me get in and out of the car. It’s so painfully slow; thank goodness they know me well. Their car is just a little shorter than ours, so the first few times I rode in it, I hit my head so hard that I felt like crying, worried that I had somehow jiggled the wires of my deep brain stimulation device. All that pain and worry simply because I was trying to rush.

Now, John helps me get in — much like how the police stuff a two-bit criminal into the back of the cruiser in your favorite police drama! When we get to our destination, it’s the same process but in reverse: keeping my head down, folding my body in half, and trying not to ruin my pants as I lean against the car.

The only “crime” I’m committing is trying to live a normal life with Parkinson’s. It’s a challenge that’s likely to get harder, not easier. However, the support and companionship of my family and friends make this journey much more enjoyable. I’m always grateful for their understanding and patience.

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.