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When I was diagnosed with PD, my neurologist talked to me for about an hour about both the worst case and the usual progress of the disease. (In his words, "You may be in a wheel chair in 5 years or you may be doing just fine 15 years from now with medication.") But he mostly talked to me in an optimistic manner, giving me a lot of initial info. about the various medications for PD. He also talked to me a little bit about my diet and the importance of regular moderate exercise. He gave me the Parkinson's Disease Handbook from APDA. He suggested that I talk to a financial advisor. My neurologist has continued to explain things clearly as my journey with PD continues. He primarily talks to me about chemical treatment. But he has encouraged me to continue with my T'ai Chi practice and acupuncture. One of the most helpful things was a friend who asked his cousin to telephone me. She is a younger person with PD, employed full time outside the home, with a couple of children. She also talked at length with my wife. She was about 5 years with PD at that point and the encouragement that she gave me and my wife was very helpful.