The positive side of Parkinson's

You must be asking, is there actually a positive side to Parkinson's? Yes, for me there is a positive side. I have become more aware and appreciative of time. Time is extremely valuable to me now. I am learning to be more productive with my time and ensure I use time wisely to try and look after myself.

Every morning I still use the rowing machine although the daily swimming regime has waned a little but I also try and play golf at least once a week. More importantly I use some time to understand and learn more about Parkinson's. Every lunchtime, I remove myself from the office, sit alone with a coffee and listen to podcasts such as https://www.youtube.com/@thesecretlifeofparkinsons or https://www.youtube.com/@parkinsonsuk or https://www.youtube.com/@davisphinneyfdn

or of course look at information provided by the fabulous website https://www.michaeljfox.org/

Another positive side is I have come to understand that I am not alone with this progressive disease.

I have recently been contacted by the National Neuroscience Clinic in Singapore and they have offered me an an appointment on 11th April 2023 to discuss my case and possibly look at Deep Brain Stimulation (I will update the blog after the appointment) at a later date. The appoint on 11th of April is actually the same day as World Parkinson's day....how cool is that, another positive sign!

As part of World Parkinson's day, I don't want you to sponsor me for anything. I would like it if you spend one minute of your time to think about those who suffer with this ever increasing, degenerative disease.

I will add some personal symptoms to give you an insight and also let you know how you can help. I have Parkinson's so my coordination and motor skills are not as good as yours, if I appear a bit wobbly, I am not drunk, just offer me your seat or your arm. I have Parkinson's and my speech can suffer especially when the tablets wear off so, if my speech is a bit slurred, I am not drunk, just ask me to repeat what I said. If you receive an email with spelling mistakes, feel free to let me know. I have Parkinson's and my memory can suffer, so if I lose my train of thought...I am not ignoring you or not listening, just remind me what we were talking about.

Finally, you could just say, "Stay positive mate, you've got this"