In 2017, while working an often stressful, full-time job in health, my writing began to change. One day, I was called to the administration office because they could not read my signature, and the same thing happened at the bank. Add that to a tremor in one of my legs, and I began to think something was wrong.
My GP quickly referred me to a very kind neurologist. The neurologist thought it could be anxiety, which made sense; I have always been an anxious person. I started on an anxiety medication and went to a counsellor, but nothing changed. The neurologist suggested I try medication for Parkinson Disease (PD). The effect was instantaneous – my tremor was gone. The diagnosis was simple; it was Parkinson’s. The neurologist referred me to the Calgary Movement Disorder Clinic.
I was devastated. Though not a death sentence, it felt that way at the time. I was a few months short of thirty years with the same employer. I almost immediately retired, thinking to reduce anxiety and stress.
My husband and I have continued living. We travel with our big dog and holiday trailer. We walk together twice a day almost without fail, and I enjoy riding my bike. This year, I will need to check out tricycles. I try to keep my PD diagnosis in the background rather than the forefront, try being the formative word. It will not go away, so I need to make the best of it and continue putting one foot in front of the other.
If you have been diagnosed with PD, try not to let it stop you. PD gets tiresome, but continue to be who you are and do what you have always done, even if adjustments are necessary. Read up on PD-related things so you can have an interactive conversation with your doctor and support team. Ask good questions, and get an understanding of the things you discuss. It is not easy, I still dither and struggle over dyskinesia, dystonia, and other PD terms.
I am deeply grateful for my support system: my loving family—husband, daughter, son, and grandson—and my sisters, who have been there to listen all my life. My GP is excellent, and my best friend is a Registered Nurse, providing me with invaluable insights and encouragement. My Movement Disorder Neurologist, Device Aided Therapy Nurse, and the entire team at the Movement Disorder Clinic are the best. In addition to my family, friends, and specialists, the Parkinson Association of Alberta (PAA) has been a constant source of help. Their support has made my journey with PD more manageable.
The Parkinson Association of Alberta (PAA) has significantly influenced my journey. I attend the monthly meeting, participate in the Step n’ Stride, and enjoy the Socials. I enjoy participating in research. I have met some incredible people (researchers and research participants, PAA members, and supporters) who are upbeat, positive, full of life, and moving forward. Truthfully, I have never been big on “clubs,” but I have found the PAA to be very positive. They offer helpful information and can direct you to the right person/place while leaving you in control of your journey. The groups are welcoming, and open to discuss and share.
PD is a club you did not ask to join, but you get a full-time membership. It is nice to have PAA as a navigator to support you and help you find your way.
