What I Learned While Visiting My Sister, Who Has Parkinson’s Disease

My sister, Bev, has stage 3 Parkinson’s disease (PD), which causes her to experience balance and short-term memory issues, along with hand tremors. While visiting her in Ohio last month, I noticed Bev’s PD had progressed. She was having more difficulty with balance, memory, and chronic fatigue,…

5 Lessons I’ve Learned on My Parkinson’s Journey

If you’re a Parkinson’s veteran, what would you tell a rookie? If you’re a rookie, what Parkinson’s lessons would you like to learn? I was diagnosed in late 2014 with young-onset Parkinson’s disease at the age of 45. At 53, I feel like both a rookie and a veteran.

What I Learned From Joining an Inclusive Theater Group

“O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” I’m sure many of you recognize that quote from Shakespeare. If you don’t, no big deal, just blame it on the Parkinson’s. But how in the world does theatrical performance have anything to do with Parkinson’s? How will Shakespeare help me in my…

My Parkinson’s Journey Is Like a Seed Waiting to Sprout

Sometimes we say “I’m sorry” and we mean it. Sometimes we say “Thank you” and we mean it. And sometimes, we don’t mean it at all. Let me explain When we are overwhelmed with living, stress takes over and we are weary and worn out. It feels as if…