I was diagnosed in 2001. A few years back, I started taking line dance classes twice a week. It was quite a challenge for me since PD robbed me of my multi-tasking abilities. During class, I had to watch my instructor's dance steps, listen to her instructions, follow her steps, listen to the beat of the music, make my own feet, legs and arms move in rhythm time, pick up my feet, swirl around without falling, and remember the sequence as line dance steps are usually repetitive. Sometimes I felt overwhelmed. Too much was happening too fast and I couldn't process it all, leading to frustration.

There were many times in the beginning, when I would have to stop dancing and stand over to the side because I couldn't get it together. Sometimes, I felt like crying, even giving up. But I am thankful that I didn't quit. I've found so much enjoyment in line dancing. I find music to be uplifting, the beat gives me energy, moving and swaying keeps my body more flexible. Also, I learned to follow, listen, move and talk all at the same time; and I now teach line dance twice a week.

I do hope PD patients will try dancing even if you've never danced before. It is a great way to get exercise and have fun doing it.The miracle of dance with PD is that no matter how tired I am, the sound of music makes me want to move, and before I know it, I'm be-bopping around the house dancing and moving to the beat.

I have the "freezing" episodes except when I'm dancing - I move as if PD never existed and I've yet to experience the freezing when I'm dancing. Try it, I think you will find a joy in moving.