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Greg You are right when you say there is no "good" age to be stricken with PD. I was diagnosed when I was 58, and I agree that it is better than had it happened at age 35. It is still tough to deal with. Also, I agree that there is nothing positive about PD. There are worse things that can happen to us, but that doesn't make PD in any way good. You have much more experience in dealing with PD than I have, and it is really difficult to know how I will feel after a few more years have gone by. At this point, I believe that I need to try to make the best of the situation, regardless of how difficult. PD certainly causes us to reevaluate our priorities. Some things considered "important" prior to PD are much less significant now. Some things I had pushed aside (religious and spiritual matters) have taken on greater importance in my life. I consider this to be positive, but it still is not a positive thing to say about PD. It is instead a positive aspect of how I have reacted to my situation. I think it is a path I would have taken anyway, but the PD diagnosis hurried things along. Also, I am not resigned to coping with PD for the remainder of my life. In this regard, there is much to hope and pray for. Dave Bergford 59/58/55? ----- Original Message ----- From: "Greg Sterling" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Sunday, July 23, 2000 10:55 PM Subject: Re: Could be worse (Count on it) > There are so many variables in each individual case of a PWP that it is hard to relate to another's specific set of circumstances. From my perspective age is probably the most significant. I'm certain that there is no "good" age to be stricken with PD, or any chronic illness, but given the choice I'd pick later rather than sooner. For all you PWP's in your "golden years" try to turn back the clock and imagine how being diagnosed at age 35, being unemployed at 45, would have effected your life and your family. I'm not complaining or whining. It's just the reality of the situation. > > I'm really beginning to wonder if the "non-fatal" aspect of this disease is a cruel hoax. I really feel I've been dead for years and just don't know it. The only difference being no one gets to collect my life insurance. Don't be concerned. I am not ready to cash in my chips, but it sure would be nice to win a hand once in a while. > > Juanita is right when she says "things could be worse". They could also be better. When it's you that rationale is no comfort. There's more to life than just waking up every morning. Existence is not living. > > I know the clichés like, "life's what you make it"; "if life gives you lemons, make lemonade"; "is the glass half empty or half full?" > > I never was any good at making things, I hate lemonade, and every glass I pick up I seem to break, so now what? > > Greg > 47/35/35