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Marling, We have several things in common: 1. Early onset of PD; was also 47 when first diagnosed with PD. 2. We both live in fairly remote places--I'm in Helena, Montana. 3. We remain employed;I'm the executive director of the state bar of Montana, an association of attorney. My job is to keep 3,500 lawyers in a state of contentment. Just kidding. Actually the job entails a black hat at times--certain regulatory functions--and a white hat also-- various services such as continuing education. As with you, I remain determined to keep on working--as long as it remains possible. While I believe no one is irreplacable, I happen to think that I do make a difference and do contribute to the well-being of others. Also, I'm inclined to believe that, by continuing to work, I can possibly slow the progression of the disease; this may be merely self-delusion, but it seems to help. You didn't ask, but I want to express my conclusions with you, based on 9+ years of living with PD: a. It's a highly personalized diseease. For some of us, the primary symptom is a tremor; for others it's slowness of movement and so on. It varies so much that I sometimes wonder if it is in fact a multitude of diseases and not just one. Because of its peculiar nature, I once thought it could it could be called "George's syndrome." You could label it, "McReynolds malady." My point is that this thing we live with can't be treated with a cookie cutter and it's important that you deal with a neurologist who will individualize the treatment plan to fit your situation. b. There WILL BE a cure. I base this statement not on technical knowedge. Rather, I 'm convinced that there are too many bright, caring peopleworking all around planet earth on this problem for it to prevail. When will a cure be discovered? I was told by the doctor who iniginally diagnesed me that a cure would likely taake place by the year 1994. Well, it's almost 1997 and I'm still waiting. I guess I'm content to leave the timing up to God.