 |
 |
Phil Tompkins <[log in to unmask]> Thank you for an excellent post. To emphasize by repetition: Aside from the pills, how to cope? People usually take one or more of three approaches, depending on their inclinations. One way is to obtain support from other people in the same situation. The listserv is good for this, as are some support groups and organizations. A second way is through learning about the disease. Some people with PD have become experts in the disease and know more about it than the average neurologist. For such people, understanding is a way of taking control or feeling in control. A third way is by taking action. .... sounds depressed, and something needs to be done about that - either counseling or medicine or both. Some improvement in symptoms (don't fear the medicine) or some steps taken in any of the coping modes should also yield improvements in morale. Improvement in physical capability is definitely possible, although ... may not regain all former capabilities. I will add the comment that helping oneself by learning more and contributing in a support group - perhaps by befriending the most appealing or the most needy Parky you meet - will be "taking action", learning, and being supported by being in the group. You get some of all three processes of coping. Ron,59,dz PD 11 <[log in to unmask]> Ronald Vetter http://www1.ridgecrest.ca.us/~rfvetter/