After my mom recovered from her most recent hospital stay a couple of months ago, we decided to go to the Parkinson’s Disease support group in our area. Since we are “newcomers”, we were invited to attend a special presentation called “Parkinson’s 101”. We have gained so much information already from the group and were happy to make it to the presentation today. It included a video by a doctor, stories of real life experiences, and even some humor. Before it started, we were told that by the end we would know more about Parkinson’s Disease than most of the doctors. The main speaker was the vice-president of the group. She was a caregiver for her mother who had Parkinson’s. Her sister’s husband had Parkinson’s and they were both present to add valuable input. Her mother-in-law also had Parkinson’s and she was able to help get the diagnosis due to her experience. They were all very passionate about the subject and had a deep desire to help Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers. As we listened, my mother and I nodded to each other as we completely understood some of the struggles that they were talking about. I asked my mom if she was told this information by her doctor and she had not. I have gone to her doctor’s appointments for the past 2 years and never heard any of what they were discussing. Most of what I learned has come from the internet, and it can be hard to decipher what is true and what is not. I continue to be baffled that she was given this diagnosis and has received so little information along the way. At the same time, I am grateful for all that we are learning right now. I feel we are all better equipped to deal with the disease and help my mom have the best quality of life.

I Found God today in caring people and valuable information to help me help my mom.