Living with Parkinson's Disease by Lisa

I grew up watching Family Ties and Michael J. Fox was always my favorite actor. IN 1991, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Sadly, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, there are tools that can help making living with this disease a little easier. And, the Michael J. Fox foundation for Parkinson’s Research is dedicated to finding a cure.

Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking, tremors, and causes difficulty walking and moving around. It also affects posture, balance, speech, and writing.

Hopefully, there will be a cure in the near future. In the meantime, though, there are strategies for living well with Parkinson’s disease. Meeting with a nutritionist to develop a healthy diet can help. Finding support within the local community through educational seminars and participating in a clinical trial can help. Occupational, physical, and speech therapists can assist in helping people adapt to living with Parkinson’s. Avoid oversleeping, watching tv, reading, or eating in bed, and develop a routine of going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Exercising daily can help in many ways. An exercise program can be tailored to each person’s personal abilities. Medications can help reduce symptoms.

People who take an active role in their care have been known to see improvements in their symptoms. In learning to live with Parkinson’s, and to adapt to any of life’s challenges, a good support system is key. It is important to maintain an open relationship with family, friends, and healthcare providers. Joining a support group for people with Parkinson’s can help those struggling with this disease realize they are not alone. Local social workers and faith based counselors are a support option as well.

Michael J. Fox is still doing what he loves and not letting this disease get him down. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.