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Hi!  My name is Suzanne.  I'm an information systems specialist here in
Michigan.  I have been a member of the listserv for about 6 months now
and decided it was time to introduce myself.   My 66 year old mother was
diagnosed about 7 years ago.  We are fortunate so far as the symptoms
seem to be limited  to be a tremor and a decline in her writing ability.  On
the last visit to her neuro, he stated he did not believe Mom would
experience the freezing and movement problems that other cases have
(does this sound right??).  Her medications are:

Sinemet - 1/2 25/100 3 times a day.
Artane - 2 mg. 4 times a day.
Inderal - LA 120 once/day (been taking 15 years for heart problems).
Zantac - 150 mg twice/day.
Sumycin - 250 mg (about 3/week as need for acne problem).

We have found that taking the Sinemet without any food results in her
facial muscles contorting.  This problem is eliminated by taking med at
breakfast and dinner.  The third dose is about 11:00 p.m.  Mom will wake
up about 5 a.m. with leg tremors.  I'm not sure why this doesn't happen
during the day (any ideas??).  We are looking at when and how much
protein she is eating.  Mom also has a persistent cough, but we're not
sure if this is allergies or Parkinson-related.

I have gotten so much out of this list from everyone to share with my
family. The first hand information based on experience, the support, and
the wonderful humor all mean a lot.  THANKS!!

A comment about the water aerobics - I taught classes for a few years.
The exercise is great for everyone.  It is important though for older
individuals or those with arthritis or other muscle/joint problems that the
water temperture be quite warm.  Also, talk to the instructor and let them
know your abilities.  They should be able to give you alternate
movements for those you find difficult or shouldn't be doing.