Thanks IMark, Judith, Rick and others for your views. Not only are we all different in our symptoms, but in our views on how we express our ideas and feelings about the disease. I think there is a sizeable group who set out not only to live as normal a life as possible, but to squeeze that little bit extra out of it, despite PD. Achievements after diagnosis count for double, and this is the way to encourage and inspire the newly diagnosed. We should not hold back from informing them what lies ahead, for fear of frightening them. If they know what one can do despite the disability, the whole story is less fearful.
IMark, I think your English is perfect, better than many "native speakers", so please don't apologise for it. I agree with Aftermathman, I enjoy your contributions.
Aftermathman, I don't think IMark is suggesting that we award points for simply "long service" in PD, after diagnosis, but I liked your comment about picking up a long service award for just being alive!! It reminds me of my early days when I started to run a large chemical factory, and I was giving a talk to nearly 200 employees, warning them we faced closure unless we made greater efforts. A disruptive person called Mick heckled me, and I replied, "Mick, survival is not compulsory". The whole audience exploded with laughter, and Mick never heckled again. However, when you think about it, survival is not compulsory with or without PD, but if you have it, you may as well be determined to enjoy life, squeeze that extra bit out of it while you can, and be the best role model you can.
So a very Happy, healthy and successful New Year to all.
Ron