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This is the first message I have read (only been on the list for a few days) that was not filled with technical information. Although I find that useful, I am hoping this list is also for newly diagnosed people who need basic information. If not, please forgive my intrusion. I was given a preliminary diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease last Friday. At that time I also had an MRI, EEG, and neck x-ray. I have had a tremor for a few years (right hand). The diagnosis was essential tremor. However, the more we read, the more my husband was convinced that it was PD. So, I asked for a second opinion. I very much like my new neurologist. She seems very thorough. However, I know little about what to expect as to the progress of the disease. I'm sure she will tell me when I go back on June 30th, but I'd like to know now. And, more importantly, I'd like to know from those who have the disease. I turned 45 in December; we just celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary. Last February I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a mastectomy -right side. Ken was not satisfied with the results of my mammograms and insisted I see a surgeon. If he had not been so adamant, I would be dead now. We were feeling very lucky to have each other and my health when this struck. I read a lot about depression being a side effect of PD. Well, I had been on Prozac for over a year and just went off. Now, I am fighting that again! I have found that I have a very strong faith. I know that God won't give me more than HE and I together can handle. I learned that last year. But, I just don't want to feel bad anymore. Dr. Rice has me on sinemet CR (1/2 tablet twice a day). I started last Friday, and, I just realized I have very little tremor today. Before the medication my hand sometimes shook so hard that my whole arm was moving! I am looking for positive information. Something that will say that I have a lot of very productive years left. I would like to correspond with someone who also was diagnosed at about my age. How quickly do the symptoms develope? Is it better to wait to start the sinemet until I really can't stand the tremor anymore? Or is it better to start now? What else should I be asking? I am of an independent bent. I want to be able to take care of myself. I don't want Ken to have to help me dress, bathe, etc. However, he has always opened any jars for me. I *never* was co-ordinated enough to do it myself. So, I am no super woman who wants to do it all. Just how dependent do I become, how soon. Course, you can also tell me that I have painted a picture way bleaker than it will be for a long while! <g> Thanks for listing. I feel a little better now. TIA, Carol On Wed, 21 Jun 1995, Dar Newman wrote: > Virginia > > Your information is correct there is no generic form of sinemet CR > but there is of the regular sinemet > > Dar >