 |
 |
Alf, I think I kind of went through the same feelings that your wife is going through. I think it was my way of not acknowledging that my Dad had PD. I knew he had it, but I just didn't want to think about it. It gave me a sinking feeling in my stomach during those first five years when I had to acknowledge the progression. It was easier to think that maybe it was just normal age, etc. Jen, Dad is PWP 55/39 -----Original Message----- From: Alf Cousins [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2000 2:51 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: doubting Thomas I know caregivers must have a difficult time, finding their lives turned upside down, especially after years of effort, but how do I deal with my wife (I'm not modern enough to call her a 'significant other') who responds to every report of my condition with a "that's probably just because of your age". I'm 50, I've had the symptoms for nearly two years, got a firm diagnosis from a Neurologist about two months ago. OK, so it's early days and I don't need meds, and the tremor etc doesn't get in the way of doing things. But I notice changes which I also read about in forums like this one, like vivid dreams, blurred vision, loss of smell, and so on. I have to say, I'm acutely aware of becoming a hypochondriac (-you know, the best way to make your family ill? Buy them a medical book for Xmas!) So, I kinda note the new symptoms with the same interest as, I imagine, a pregnant woman notes the subtle changes in her body. One day the bump is going to be obvious to everyone. But for now, when I report some new observation I'd like the conversation to be about the possibility that it may be related to PD, not have it dismissed as "Look you're getting older, you might have expected this to happen anyway..." Am I being unfair, am I missing something.... any caregivers out there who want to fire an opinion my way. Alf 50/<1/2