An Ode to Alan Bonander
Like so many others I first got to know you through your writings. As
editor of the Movers and Shakers your writings inspired, encouraged and
informed so many of us. As President of the California of the Young Onset
Parkinson s Group, you devoted tireless hours so that others might be better
able to cope with this ruthless disease.
We first talked by phone in 1993 a week after you had returned from
Sweden where you had a successful Pallidotomy. I never will forget your
description of it as a resurrection like experience on the operating table.
Your encouragement was a major factor in my having a Pallidotomy in Dec. 1993.
Your recommendation of Dr. Iacono was one I took to heart. (as well as my head)
Your invitation to speak to your support group in Walnut Creek was one I
couldn t pass up. Picking me up from the airport in your cherry vintage
Cadillac Eldorado was an experience it itself. Speaking to your support group
on Saturday and preaching a sermon When Stuff Happens in the Presbyterian
Church on Sunday.
Sitting up till the wee hours of the morning trying to understand how
the Pallidotomy worked
Your computer control room lined with books, handouts, computer screens,
diskettes made an indelible impression on me. From within this room poured
forth so much wisdom, compassion, along with a wry sense of humor.
I remember the gracious hospitality I received when I stayed in the
Bonander home from you and your delightful wife, Jane.
Watching you carefully mix up your day s portion of liquid medicines for
use in your infusion pump which enabled you to function at such a high level for
so many years is another image that is imprinted upon my mind.
I remember those two days in your home being amazed at all the people who
sought out your counsel by telephone. Your absolute graciousness and
compassionate understanding in dealing with a newly diagnosed Parkinson s
patient who would call late at night. All the while an informed patient
advocate when it came to dealing with the medical community. Unafraid to take
on doctors who were uninformed or misinformed concerning the treatment of
Parkinson's Disease.
Always interested in the latest research developments you kept many of us
up to speed.
In your last year as President of the Young Onset Parkinson s Group you
hosted the statewide Parkinson s Movers and Shakers meeting in San Mateo. I
will always remember you as a person of incredible energy with glasses slipping
down your nose, vest unbuttoned, perspiration beading on your brow as emceed the
meeting with diplomacy and grace.
We all knew of your daily battles with Parkinson's Disease yet few of us
realized the equally formidable dragon you faced with asthma which would be your
undoing.
Thanks Alan, for sharing your life so openly and courageously with us.
Your community spirit serves as an inspiration to all of us, doctors,
neurologists, neurosurgeons, researchers, Senators, Representatives, patients,
and caregivers to ease the burden and find a cure.
With gratitude to God for the times our lives touched one another.
Don Berns
Dr. Don Berns
4943 Del Monte Rd.
La Canada, CA 91011
818-790-8812
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