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Speaking 'bout the Pope and PD, I seem to recall a oh-so-brief statement put out by the Vatican (and don't quote me on this one, folks, 'cause I'm not 100% positive) a few years ago stating that the Pope does have PD. And by "brief," it was about a sentence or two long. Norm, I can't help but believe you're right about all those who'd benefit from a public confirmation by the Vatican of His Holiness having Parkinson's. He's missing a big chance to perhaps bring a sense of acceptance and peace to many people who trust him and look to him for guidance. Oh well.... each individual - Pope or not - has to come to grips with PD in their own way. One thing I'd REALLY like to know 'bout the Pope, tho... Where the heck does he get the energy to keep up the grueling pace he exhibits when he's paying a visit to a foreign country??? Jiminay! He's on the go for DAYS!!! I know * I * sure don' have THAT kinda energy and I'm a HECKUVA lot younger than HE is! <grin> Barb Mallut [log in to unmask] ---------- From: Parkinson's Information Exchange on behalf of Norman Ichiyen Sent: Tuesday, April 28, 1998 3:35 PM To: Multiple recipients of list PARKINSN Subject: Pope John Paul With the messages about famous people living with Parkinsons - I noticed that someone mentioned the Pope - presumably as a positive example. Unfortunately I see the Pope's refusal to admit he has Parkinsons as sending a very strong negative message about Parkinsons. Here is the head of the Catholic Church denying he has Parkinsons. Of course this may be true, BUT, if he actually does have PD - then the message he is sending is that he is ashamed of having it and that others should be so as well. It says that PD should be hidden. When I think of the missed opportunity he has for doing so much good for other Parkinsonians I get very depressed. Simply by admitting he has PD and that he is able to cope and that he battles on - this would be a wonderful message. Is there any way we can get this idea to him? Norm Ichiyen Home: [log in to unmask] Mississauga, Ontario, Canada