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!

Hello and welcome to NeuroTalk. Happy to see you have come to be with us. Just let us know if we can be of any help.

There are great number and caring fellow members here to assist you. Our shoulders are here for support in many ways. Check out the following forum for some wonderful help:

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum34.html

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Darlene