Les I had bilateral DBSs (second was redo of left side) in summer of 2003 and just had surgery to replace the batteries this week. When I first heard about DBS I swore I would never have it, but when my tremors went bilateral I changed my mind. Sinemet only worked for me on the first dose, but never again. Requip and Mirapex never helped either. DBS is really good for tremor; both PD and essential. My voice has been damaged by DBS and my fine motor skills are still lousy, have to use walker to walk, but I TAKE NO PD MEDS. I did not get my life back, but am never depressed and am able to carry on anyway. I don't know what kind of shape I would be in if I hadn't had it done. My neurologist just asked me if I would be willing to talk to some PWP who are good candidates for DBS, but fearful. I am sending you the article I wrote for CNN.com about my DBS. Rayilyn Brown Board Member AZNPF Arizona Chapter National Parkinson's Foundation [log in to unmask] ----- Original Message ----- From: "Les Combs" <[log in to unmask]> To: <[log in to unmask]> Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2007 1:37 PM Subject: DBS - yes or no I am 60 years old and was diagnosed in 1999 with PD. I have tension in my jaw that keeps my mouth open, spasm in my back as the day goes on. I get tired by the afternoon and am exhausted by 6 or 7 pm. I shuffle when my symptoms are at the worst and have trouble speaking well. My neurologist has recommended DBS. If you've had DBS, tell me about your experience. AND WHO DO YOU RECOMMEND. I live in Las Vegas, but ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn would travel to CA or AZ for the surgery. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn