[ann marie Brick]

Thanks Michael. Your reply is very helpful except the part about falling.?? Really? I assumed my feet would work better riding than walking…so what do you think causes the falls? Balance issues?

You’re right about the heat being more problematic. I can ride better in cold temps.

[ann marie Brick]

Jean: I’m not sure whether this is a new policy for Mayo to deal with issues created by Covid-19. I do have a cardiologist at Mayo that I see annually, may be that’s why. It sounded to me like they just cancelled everyone’s appointments regardless of whether they were established or new…and are now checking to see who would be willing to do the telemedicine route…I’ll let you know how it goes.

[ann marie Brick]

This information is helpful. My first appointment with my “new” neurologist at Mayo is a telemedicine call Monday morning. Now I have more familiarity with some med issues that we can discuss. Thanks again.

[ann marie Brick]

This info is very heartening! I know medications are inevitable, but the side effects scare me more than the symptoms I have now. Thx for your comments

[ann marie Brick]

To Glenn M.: Thanks so much for taking the time to respond to my question. I really appreciate the references to the research studies because I learned that the intensity of the exercise is very important as well. I do not need medication at this point so I will focus on the exercise!

[ann marie Brick]

Skip & Michael:  I started mountain biking 3 years ago when we lived in Leadville, Co.  We moved to Arizona 2 years ago close to McDowell Mountain with 250 miles of trails!  I was diagnosed last month with PD (age 71) but haven’t been able to meet with my new neurologist at Mayo, because of the Covid virus.  Consequently, I’m not on any medication.  (yet?)  Do you think my frequent mountain bike rides (16-24 miles) can delay the need for medication?  I mean, have you been able to have reduced dosages of the meds because of your biking?

[ann marie Brick]

My husband and I started doing Djembe drumming last fall with a Unitarian Church in Phoenix.  I was diagnosed with PD about a month ago, and am so happy to have the drumming to keep my shakey left hand occupied!  Love it!