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Hi Bob, Welcome to the list. You asked about how long you could continue working and how fast PD progresses. Symptoms and the progression of the disease tend to be very different for each PWP (People With Parkinson's). Generally the progression seems to be slow in most young onset patients. Like Scott, i didn't notice many changes in my symptoms for about the first 6 years, but now the meds do not always work as well. it becomes a matter of trial and error to find the most effective combination and dosage and timing of the various PD meds. Likewise - how long you can work depends on your symptoms and also the nature of your job. I know people who are working 10 years or more since diagnosis; others need to stop sooner. Understanding and support from your employer and co-workers makes a big difference. In the U.S. under the Americans with Disabilities Act, PWP are entitled to request certain job accomodations that may allow them to continue to work. There's good info. on this on the Job Accomodations Network on the web at: www.jan.wvu.edu/ I'd also suggest contacting Susan Reese at the APDA Young Onset Parkinson's Information and Referral Center 800- 223-9776. She is very helpful and easy to talk to. Being newly diagnosed, you probably have lots of questions about PD - don't hesitate to ask -- we are here to help each other. Best wishes, Linda Herman ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn