While I agree that a movement disorder specialist will be better qualified to make an accurate diagnosis , I have to point out that **IF** one has one of the PD Plus syndromes (Striatonigral degeneration being one of several) there does not at present seem to be an effective med to treat it. Thus, as accurate as possible a diagnosis is extremely important....and thus the need for the long car trip to the MDS. There are rather specific symptoms for each of these PD+ conditions, and an MDS will know what they are and how to assess them. Hang in there, Mike--don't jump to conclusions, and know we are wishing you the best possible outcome to your trip.. Camilla Flintermann, former CG for Peter 83/70/55 Oxford, Ohio <[log in to unmask]> on the web at http://www.geocities.com/camillahf/index.html and also at http://members.tripod.lycos.nl/genugten/flinterm.htm "Ask me about the CARE list for Caregivers of Parkinsonians ! " And visit the CARE webring at http://www.pdcaregiver.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn