The Beginning

As I looked down at my trembling hand the level of panic escalated. I shook my head and reminded myself that it was probably down to dehydration. My family had traveled to meet my brother and I was determined to enjoy the trip. I was aware of the symptoms of Parkinson’s but I squashed the fears and continued with my busy life.

When the tremors could not be ignored I was referred to a neurologist who confirmed what I had feared.

I cried that day and then went to work the day after.

A dose of reality

For five years I worked long hours and was determined Parkinson’s wasn’t going to beat me. The bubble finally burst when my boss met with me and informed me that I was to take time off. Reality was a hard pill to swallow but it is what I needed.

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I had tried so hard to behave as ‘normal’ in the beginning. I ignored the worries of my family and I rarely cooked as I was so tired.
Taking time off has given me the opportunity to reflect on my journey. Denial is hard to admit and there are still days when I wake up and I struggle with knowing I have Parkinson’s.

From the beginning, I wish I had asked for help and not been so afraid of discussing my feelings with my family and friends. I wish I had asked for help instead of being a hero and doing housework and other chores myself. I was lucky that my meds controlled my symptoms except for the overwhelming tiredness.

My travel companions

On a positive note, I have opened up to my family and realized that dialogue reduces anxiety; not increase it. I am seeing a psychologist to overcome the symptoms of anxiety and as I have more time, my cooking has improved and I have been promoted to chef and not microwave mum!

I am returning to work in three months to a position I love and less responsibility. Everyone’s journey is different and unique to their circumstances. It is a road we can choose to travel alone or ask people to help and lighten the load.

In the beginning, I thought only I could travel down the path and whether the storm but now I am so glad I have the support of my traveling companions.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The ParkinsonsDisease.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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