 |
 |
Paul Ayers wrote: > >6/1/00 Grits and Dread(locks) It's difficult to describe >to someone without PD what "being off" (specifically in public) feels like. Some offhand comments: Coping with PD while living alone is difficult. Functioning in public while in the "off" phase can be downright adventurous. 1. (Males) Restrict your wardrobe to black trousers. If you already own khakis or other light-colored pants, use them only for work around the house. I do have a couple of ancient summer suits for rare occasions such as school reunions, but on those I take care not to risk going "off". 2. If you're driving alone, especially on a long trip, take one of those hospital urinals along and learn to use it inside the car- You never know when the sudden need will occur. 3. In the "on" phase I don't have the grotesque dyskinesias that bother some people, but I do get slightly manic, with little shuffling dance steps while pushing the shopping cart, or leering at tots in their strollers. Be sure to leer at mom first, so she won't think you're a D.O.M. 4. If people following you at the checkout register always seem to be fidgety and impatient while you fumble with wallet or pen and checkbook, try writing most of the check beforehand, leaving only the amount to fill in. 5. BTW, you may notice I don't bother with the PD/Non-PD designator- Subscribers to this list are extremely diverse; its main virtue (and reason for long survival) is, something for everyone. If you're so busy (or languid) that you don't have time to look at Subject or Sender before hitting your Delete key, perhaps this list isn't for you. Cheers, Joe -- J. R. Bruman (818) 789-3694 3527 Cody Road Sherman Oaks, CA 91403-5013