10th Anniversary: Has PD Given Me Gifts?

Dear Parkinson's: It's hard to believe that it's been ten years since we officially met. I remember the first time I noticed you, among the nerve cells of the substantia nigra. By the time we were diagnosed, you had already taken a heavy toll on my body, but I've learned to live with you, and even appreciate some of the gifts you've given me.

I'm not sure what to get you for our anniversary. Tin is traditional for the tenth year, but I can't think of anything made of tin that you would want. Maybe we could get masquerade costumes. You've already given me a mask to go with the costume, due to my decreased facial expression. There are some gifts you've given me that I would like to return. Is there a gift receipt for muscle rigidity, stiffness in the arms, shoulders and neck, voice changes, and sleep disturbances? If you're willing to take those back, I'm sure that I could find a few more.

On the other hand, there are some things you've given me that I love and wouldn't mind more of:

• Flexibility in adjusting to change. There are parts of my life I have no control over, so I need to be able to quickly shift course.

• A positive attitude. Choosing to have a positive attitude impacts my relationships with others and how I take care of myself.

• Compassion. You may have changed my way of moving, working, and living, but you also taught me to have compassion, empathy, and appreciation for those affected by all types of illness.

• Gratitude. You've increased my gratitude for the simple things in life that are often taken for granted.

So Parkinson's, like so many relationships, we've had good times and weathered some bad times. But through it all, I've learned to appreciate the gifts that you've given me. Thank you for teaching me to be more flexible, positive, compassionate, and grateful. May we continue in our journey together for many years to come.

Sincerely,

Jud