Karla Burkhart

I was diagnosed in 2014 but had symptoms for at least 15 years prior. I was told for a long time I had Sjogrens, an autoimmune disease, which included pain and extremely dry eyes/mouth. It wasn’t until a started a tremor in my left hand that Parkinson’s was thought of. It seems that all the symptoms I had been having also fall under the PD list.

I was beginning to have trouble singing but my neurologist referred me to a speech therapist. After a few sessions with her to improve my breath control among other things, she sent me to a voice teacher for a couple of sessions to follow up. Then I was back to singing. The biggest problem now is heavy fatigue since most rehearsals are evening.

I, too, am a singer although not of Linda Ronstadt’s level of fame. I have worked very hard, even before I knew I had Parkinson’s, to maintain my voice. Voice therapy plus the help of a good voice teacher has been a life saver to me. I’m just not ready to give up my life.

I had a number of problems for years before developing a tremor. It wasn’t until then that Parkinson’s was considered.

I certainly feel that my day revolves about med times. I not only have to set alarms on my phone but I also have to time meals just right. Regular life has to fit that schedule.

I have more trouble with my toes than with my fingers. I have not DBS. There are so many strange symptoms with PD that made it hard to diagnose. The tingling, numbness, and pain are hard to live with.