This week is my 4th anniversary since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I was having lunch with a friend when they asked me, “How do you feel about the last 4 years?” I had to think for a moment…. I know, the Perky Parkie speechless… impossible. I remembered how my body felt before the diagnosis, and it is heartbreaking, because I can see the progression of my disease in such a short time. Things that came with ease, now present a challenge.
Yes, it is a horrible disease and yes, I have had some extremely difficult moments, but the truth is, without Parkinson’s, I wouldn’t be who I am today. My life has a deeper meaning. I wouldn’t have had the honor to meet all the remarkable, inspiring and motivating people who have come into my life because of this disorder.
Sometimes I wonder about how I will feel and look in 4 more years…. trust me, not a great way to spend your afternoon. But although I am apprehensive about what the future may hold, I refuse to go down without a fight! I might get a few bumps and bruises along the way, but I won’t be defeated! So today, I lift my cup of Fro Yo to Parkinson’s and say, “Bring it!”
There are no such things as FUNNY Parkinson’s jokes! Let’s get real here!
But that doesn’t mean that someone can’t live in the light because they have
Parkinson’s……. every Parkinson’s patient I’ve ever met wishes to feel NORMAL in some way every day!
Love the tulips! It’s a great month to be aware. I admire that you are out there waving the flag. I’m 2 years in and skulking around playing the anonymous Parkie. You know the one, she is sitting on her tremoring hand, battling a vicious sleep attack during the afternoon staff meeting. I drag myself out of bed every morning to work out before starting my day and my colleagues are impressed with my motivation in that area. I used to say I’d only run if I were being chased. Ha! Now I am being chased and they are coming for my brain cells. Keep moving, keep laughing, and keep one dancing step ahead of the slow moving nemesis behind you. Thanks so much for sharing and thanks for being out there. Much love to you. – A Closet Parkie
Dear Closet Parkie,
Don’t be afraid of coming out of the dark. Life is short, don’t waste time on things you can’t change. It takes a lot of energy trying to make others feel comfortable. You can’t change the diagnosis, but you can ask for support. Thank you for sharing. I’m here if you ever need a friend.
I am 65 have pd for 5 years now I was kinda down when i found your sight ,Thanks for helping me get back on track . Have started to train for my 100 mile bike ride in sept. Jim
Get on that bike Jim! Keep on moving!
Allison, I have great respect and admiration for you in how you inspire others through your blog and daily living. In my 18 + years wresting with this monster I’ve learned, its about attitude. Its extremely tough some days but if we can just manage to find something positive and shine a glimmer of hope for the next day, then we succeed in taming the beast.
Michael J Church
Thank you for your comment. 18+years and still a positive attitude! Bravo!
Love your post! Thanks for sharing your life with us & showing us how to turn lemons into champagne! You are truly an inspiration!
Allison, I admire your attitude! The way you react to a situation can make all the difference in the world! Take it one day at a time and don’t forget to laugh! :))
Allison,
I was diagnosed 18 years and there is not a day that I am not reminded in some way that I have PD, some days better than others. Of course it has progressed but not as fast as I expected. So each of us with PD get up, some days slower than other, but I will remember always that the first doctor that diagnosed my Parkinson’s told me I could have a brain tumor that will cause death much sooner. He was right I have survived and I will keep surviving even tho some days it is harder than others, so you hang in and take the lemons and make lemonade…
So true! You have a great outlook! Thanks for sharing.
I remember when I started looking for info on the web, I had been diagnosed officially 2 months before you. You had posted a video of your dystonia, I’ve been following you ever since, yup I am a stalker! lol! Love your blog Allison, you are doing great things!
Thank you for your sweet words Jillian, you can be my stalker any day!!
You go girl! Love you and your spirit