I am going on now almost 1 year (next month in April 24th) as being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. I learned about this site from a few terrific people that I had the opportunity to briefly talk to at the recent Parkinson's Action Network Conference held on 2/28-3/2/2011 in Washington DC. I am only starting to learn about the vast research and supports that are out there for anytype of patients. Just need to look and be open to sharing. I have gone through the stage of disbelief and a feeling of surrealism, thinking that I am going to wake up one day and this was all just a dream. To now being able to let others know openly (though I am still very picky as to who I share with) those that I can trust to want to understand and have been wonderful supportive friends and family!
I am 40 years old and it started with a twitch in my right thumb about 4 years ago. I just thought it was a muscle spasm due to being tired and fatigued. Then about a year or so after the thumb twitch, my hand began shaking while resting it on things and when my right foot started moving on its own, I decided that this is not due to tiredness, so I went to see my doctor.
After initially being diagnosed with Essential Tremors, but the progression of my tremors were too quick for the normal progression of ET, neurologist did a multitude of tests to a spinal tap - to rule out Multiple Sclerosis, he concluded that I have Parkinson's Disease.
There's more that I can share, but the new meds I'm taking is making me very sleepy.
Just wanted to say hello to those that attended the PAN Conference - if there are any online and in this thread. Wish all the best to those with challenges!