What Do You Do When You Have Young Onset Parkinson’s - Fighting Back, Part 1

So you get the diagnosis, Parkinson’s… but wait, I’m not old.  How do I have PD? The neurologist explains to you that they’re not exactly sure how; there could be several factors. Your reaction is sad, angry, confused, numb, all of the above which is normal when someone tells you that you have a disease and oh by the way we just don’t have a cure quite yet for it. By all means take a moment to feel sorry for yourself and take one more moment to feel bad for your spouse and loved ones. They will be affected by this, too.

"Now it’s time to get to work," is what I told myself.  What is in my arsenal? What do I have at my disposal to fight and live the best life I can while research is being done to find a cure?

Exercise and nutrition seem to be a must as more and more studies tout the benefits for those with PD (consult your doctor before starting any exercise program). Educate yourself so you can be proactive in managing your own health care. Help your doctors help you. Keep a log or journal about what you are doing, extra supplements you might be taking, sleep patterns, exercise, diet, etc. Meditation and a positive mind set can help deal with PD mentally and emotionally, as well as memory games to help with cognitive abilities. You could get involved in local support groups, or participate in clinical trials to help with research which will help in the development of new therapies and one day possibly a cure. Write a blog and reach out to the PD community so we can share stories and support one another as we fight this together. Remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE!              

      

So what are you going to do? You can take the woe is me approach or you can become determined. We can draw the line in the sand and become unwavering, relentless, never say quit, fight for every inch and moment of your life, determined. It won’t be easy.  Parkinson’s is relentless, but we need to be, too. I have chosen to LIVE with PD and not merely exist. The New Year is coming and with every new year, hope.

In part 2 of this series, Fighting Back - How to Start an Exercise Routine.

I am Pat Younts and I Move to Live.