This week I had my twelve month review – albeit 3 months overdue – and I’m glad I did. In the back of my mind, I think I always wonder if I am doing OK. If I am missing signs of progression and being lulled into a false sense of security.
So I had my review with my specialist last week. I admit I was nervous about the outcome, wondering if I had deteriorated more than I had realised. We walked into the consulting rooms and he beckoned me to sit in a very comfortable chair. I thought, ‘I know what you’re up to!’ and sure enough one of the tests was to see if I could get up out of the chair without using my arms. I am happy to say, I passed with flying colours!
I know I try to live in the moment predominantly, but ultimately the spectre of progression is always there. After some testing, my specialist Neurologist stated that my progression was minimal and that my Parkinson’s was a slow burner and deterioration was expected to be slow. The best news ever!
I do have some additional symptoms and he has added Sinemet to try to assist with them. I admit hearing the word ‘Sinemet’ gave me pause. Both my parents had been on this in their time and there was an emotional element to that realisation, knowing that I am going onto a ‘real’ Parkinson’s medication. It would be easy to focus on the psychological aspect of being on the medication both my parents used, but I am endeavouring to ignore that aspect.
If a medication is deemed to be needed and it helps with my symptoms, that is a good thing. The fact that my parents used it, shouldn’t enter into it. But, it does. But I will try to focus on the fact that if it helps me, that is a good thing!
My journey with Parkinsons 