Journeying Through Parkinson’s Disease — Sherri Woodbridge
Sherri was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease over 15 years ago. She can be found working in her garden, going for walks, taking pictures, or reading books to her three favorite grandkids. Sherri is taking life somewhat slower, and perhaps with guarded steps, but she’s not giving in.
How do I start this? What do I say? A few years after I was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease, I went to my movement disorder specialist for my routine, three-month…
“Why can’t I go?” asked my granddaughter, whom I call Boo. “The doctor is trying to fix my brain and it won’t be any fun,” I replied as 3-year-old Boo looked at…
I had every good intention of writing a column about my first experience with Rock Steady Boxing last week, but alas, things don’t always work out as planned. My first attempt…
A continuation of the “ABCs of Parkinson’s” series. The girls OK, OK. So I’m reaching for examples of the letter “G” to fit for this section. Girls? Yes, girls, speaking toward…
I often refer to my journey with Parkinson’s disease (PD) as a battle I am fighting. One Merriam-Webster definition of battle is “an extended contest, struggle, or controversy.” Another is…
While searching for a movement disorders doctor, I happened upon a government listing for Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Centers of Excellence, which fascinated me. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, PD Centers of Excellence deliver…
I am part of several internet support groups for Parkinson’s disease. A while back, a member posed a question on a discussion board: “I was wondering if craving sweets is an unusual symptom…
Editor’s note: A continuation of the “ABCs of Parkinson’s” series. “You have Parkinson’s disease.” “What exactly does that mean?” I asked. While I waited for a response to my question, my…
About 12 years before my “official” diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, I originally went to an eye doctor, as I was having issues with my right eye. It would feel as if it…
I recently received an email from someone concerned that he may have early signs of Parkinson’s disease. I have met others who have PD, but not someone in the throes of wondering…
Several years ago, my youngest son discovered the camera, and through its lens, he discovered a whole new world. On one particular day, I was feeling down and he asked why. “I…
As a young parent, it is often hard to realize how fast time slips away. You’re too busy changing diapers, refilling milk bottles, wiping dirty faces, and running bath water. You’re doing…
According to Wikipedia, a “team is a group of individuals working together to achieve a goal.” But a “group does not necessarily constitute a team.” Teamwork is defined as “the collaborative effort…
You have been asked to speak to a group of newbies in the Parkinson’s world. You have been asked to share with them wisdom you have gleaned from walking this journey of…
I read a post recently in a Facebook group for people with Parkinson’s disease. The poster asked fellow group members what their response would be to others when asked what…
If you were to see a yellow ribbon logo, you’d think of supporting our troops. A pink ribbon is associated with supporting breast cancer awareness. But a tulip? Ah,…
I took a walk over a waterfall the other day. The power of the water rushing beneath me was incredible. So powerful, in fact, that were I to have fallen in, the…