Steffi-
Thanks for the welcome. I've been reading this site for quite a while, but have not contributed my input until recently. I did not think that I had much to offer. I realize now that, with roughly 2 decades of dealing with PD, I have plenty of experience and accumulated knowledge that can be helpful to many.
Coincidentally, my "time line" with PD is similar to Michael J. Fox. Initial symptoms, diagnosis, going public, stopping work, all at about the same age, more or less. And, except for the fame, world-wide recognition, acting talent, book-writing and untold wealth, our liives are practically identical!!! (Just going for a laugh there! Is there an emoticon for sarcasm?)

Anyway, thanks for your kind words and I'm glad that you feel my input was useful to you and others. If you decide to go for the patch and have any questions, I'd be happy to offer my help.

In the meantime, aside from medication, I have to say the two most important "treatments" for the best prognosis is plenty of EXERCISE and ATTITUDE(read: sense of humor). It's not always easy (just try telling a joke while running!) but very important.

All the best,
Keith