During a discussion group this week, I was using my diagnosis as an example of something that I need to be mindful of in my work. I was asked, ‘Do you find it difficult working with people with similar conditions? Or is it helpful?’ I didn’t have to think about it too long at allContinue reading “Parkies makes me a better person and a better Social Worker!”
Category Archives: Self learning and growth
‘Shouldisms’ and Self-care
The use of language is a powerful thing. The words we use can create negative or positive thoughts and feelings. I have always hated the word ‘should’, to me it is heavily value laden with the expectations of others. We then take on board and often beat ourselves up for not achieving what they andContinue reading “‘Shouldisms’ and Self-care”
If I had a time machine…
Or, If I had a crystal ball…. It’s hard sometimes to find a title for my posts. Often there is a mad jumble of thoughts and emotions when I sit down to write and to make sense of it can be a challenge. I had my grandchildren for the weekend, and we have had aContinue reading “If I had a time machine…”
Valentines Day…
romance in the air?? So today is 14 February, Valentines Day. A day when – if we have them – some of us might make romantic gestures towards our partners. Or perhaps a secret admirer will emerge to sweep us off our feet with sweet roses and sweet nothings? But what is romance really? IsContinue reading “Valentines Day…”
Research participation
Well, this morning I had my first online interview for the research I have just embarked on which is ‘NZ Parkinson’s Environment and Genes Study (NZ PEGS). I must say I was rather nervous about it. They did some follow-up questions regarding the online questionnaires that I filled in and clarified some of my answers.Continue reading “Research participation”
Research Participation… stretching my memory!
I have just signed up to participate in a research programme about Environment and Genes. To start I have had to complete several surveys on a number of topics. It certainly is very thorough! The detail of the information they seek is huge and have really stretched me at times. One of the first thingsContinue reading “Research Participation… stretching my memory!”
Do unto others…
Being raised a Catholic – one very lapsed Catholic I might add – there is a prayer somewhere that goes ‘Do unto others as you would like them to do unto you’. I think that is something that we should all keep in mind as we go through life. As much as possible I tryContinue reading “Do unto others…”
A sense of urgency perhaps?
This diagnosis has changed my thinking in so many ways. I think deeper and feel deeper than I ever have. I analyze my life and my decisions are informed in many ways on an emotional level much more than previously. There is obviously a good deal of practical thinking in my decision-making processes, but theContinue reading “A sense of urgency perhaps?”
Sing like no-one is listening…
Last night I was in my kitchen cooking and my husband was in the lounge watching television. I love to cook and also listening to music while I cook. Usually something upbeat that I can sing along to. I love to sing along to songs I know – sometimes I may not absolutely know allContinue reading “Sing like no-one is listening…”
What would I tell my newly diagnosed self…
I am a member of a Parkinson’s Facebook group and find it very helpful hearing from others with this condition. It is a very positive group and they have themes on it like ‘Talent Tuesday’ where you are encouraged to share a skill or talent you have. Other days have other themes, but always youContinue reading “What would I tell my newly diagnosed self…”
My journey with Parkinsons 