Mary Beth Skylis

When my Dad was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it took a great deal of time to find the right balance of medications. Together, he and his neurologist found ways to combat his symptoms after a bit of effort. But since Parkinson’s is fluid, the process is continuous. How long does it normally take to find the right medication balance?

My Dad and I are always on the hunt to find treatments to ease his Parkinson’s symptoms. Lately, we’ve been impressed with Hempseed Oil because of its ability to calm his anxiety. And our success has me wondering about ways that others find support. Which alternative treatments have felt successful for you?

My Dad had Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) nearly two years ago, and the results were shockingly positive for him. But he struggled with fear and nervousness, wondering if the surgery would make his symptoms worse. What are your thoughts about DBS? Have you had it? Do you hope to have it? And do you think it’s worth the risk?

Caregiving can be extremely exhausting. My Mom asked my to take my Dad on a road trip to Florida this Winter. She whispered that she’s really tired and could use a hand. Hearing her say as much got me wondering what other caregivers do when they feel spent. What do you do? Do you have people you can lean on for help? Are you able to get…[Read more]

Although vaccinations are becoming more readily available across the globe, many people are still choosing to stay quarantined. My Dad has been missing his Rock Steady Boxing classes, but he spends the morning doing yoga stretches and riding his bike indoors. What are some of your favorite virtual exercise classes? Or personal fitness routines?

Hey Everyone,

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we’re featuring 30 Parkinson’s stories on social media. We’re looking for 300-350 words about the topic of your choosing. Some people have talked about devices that help them, what it’s like to be a caregiver, and exercise. But there’s space for more! We’ll also require a few photos (of the…[Read more]

Hey Everyone,

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we’re featuring 30 Parkinson’s stories on social media. We’re looking for 300-350 words about the topic of your choosing. Some people have talked about devices that help them, what it’s like to be a caregiver, and exercise. But there’s space for more! We’ll also require a few photos (of the…[Read more]

Hey Everyone,

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we’re featuring 30 Parkinson’s stories on social media. We’re looking for 300-350 words about the topic of your choosing. Some people have talked about devices that help them, what it’s like to be a caregiver, and exercise. But there’s space for more! We’ll also require a few photos (of the…[Read more]

Hey Everyone,

In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we’re featuring 30 Parkinson’s stories on social media. We’re looking for 300-350 words about the topic of your choosing. Some people have talked about devices that help them, what it’s like to be a caregiver, and exercise. But there’s space for more! We’ll also require a few photos (of the…[Read more]

Whenever I’m navigating tough moments in my life, I throw myself into research. I learn everything I can about my enemies or the obstacles I’m facing. When it comes to Parkinson’s disease, I like to approach it in a similar manner. I want to know everything there is to know about the illness. And I’m always looking for good sources. Do you have…[Read more]

Getting a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be pretty surreal. My Dad saw a number of doctors, before he was willing to let the idea settle in. What would you tell someone who was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease? Is there anything you would’ve liked to have heard while receiving your own diagnosis?

My Dad’s doctor has recommended that he visit a Speech Pathologist if he’s willing. While he’s still doing quite well, his voice has gotten softer and it can be difficult to hear him from across the room. Do you see a Speech Pathologist? If so, has it been helpful?

April is just around the corner, and it isn’t long before my Dad and I will be celebrating Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The month is designed to shed light and interest on the difficulties that surround Parkinson’s disease. We’ll be featuring 30 people that struggle with Parkinson’s, that care for someone who does, or who work with PD patients…[Read more]

The last time I was at home, I noticed that my Dad’s freezing episodes appear to be getting longer. It takes him a few tries to get walking again. And I’m not sure what strategies we might be able to try to help him with this dilemma. Have you been able to find useful tricks to get yourself unfrozen?

When Covid-19 struck the planet, I was forced to begin tele-therapy instead of receiving in-person sessions on a weekly basis. At first, I worried that the transition would take away from the integrity of our sessions. But after a few weeks, I started to appreciate the convenience. And I didn’t feel as though I’d lost the ability to receive…[Read more]

Living with Parkinson’s disease can be stressful for many reasons. My Dad began noticing tremors, which eventually led to his diagnosis. As the illness continued to wreck havoc on his body, he decided to explore Deep Brain Stimulation, but one of his concerns was whether or not his insurance company would cover it. Do you worry about health insurance?

So far, out of my 8 family members, two of us have had COVID-19. My sister and my brother displayed very few symptoms. Luckily, no one else has had the virus. But I’m curious if any of you have had COVID? If so, what was your experience like?

Hi everyone!

I’m working on a project to shed some light on those who struggle with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. For the month of April, I’d like to feature some of you (if you’re willing). We can talk about topics of your choosing. Or I’m happy to ask some questions. We’re looking to have you write about 300 words about caregiving,…[Read more]

Hi everyone!

I’m working on a project to shed some light on those who struggle with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. For the month of April, I’d like to feature some of you (if you’re willing). We can talk about topics of your choosing. Or I’m happy to ask some questions. We’re looking to have you write about 300 words about caregiving,…[Read more]