[Jim091866]

Hey, I'd like to ask for replies as to who has had PD for 15 yrs or longer. 20 years? 25 years? What were your primary symptoms leading to diagnosis, how old were you? What are your symptoms now? Do you live alone, with a spouse, child or have a caregiver (how often or how many hours a week), Do you still drive? How ambulatory are you? What services are there in your area that you take advantage of? What do you wish were available? If you could what advice would you give to others with PD? Thanks, this should be interesting!

[vlhperry]

Originally Posted by Jim091866

Hey, I'd like to ask for replies as to who has had PD for 15 yrs or longer. 20 years? 25 years? What were your primary symptoms leading to diagnosis, how old were you? What are your symptoms now? Do you live alone, with a spouse, child or have a caregiver (how often or how many hours a week), Do you still drive? How ambulatory are you? What services are there in your area that you take advantage of? What do you wish were available? If you could what advice would you give to others with PD? Thanks, this should be interesting!

I have been diagnosed since 1990,HAD AN F-DOPA SCAN which showed Moderately severe in 2002, had a genetic test in 2006 showing I had two very rare mutations in my Parkin gene. Symptoms were located in my trunk area and lack of swing in right arm. Also was experiencing the beginnings of resting tremor in right hand. The progression I have had is not visible. Mostly my trunk is so rigid it is hard to breath. Mental and emotional are strongly affected. I was diagnosed shortly after my second marriage and am still married to the same guy, a music teacher. I stopped driving because I kept pulling the car to the right. I could not live with the thought of hurting someone. Up until last summer I was able to walk with a cane. I now use a walker. Advice? Turn in your pride and learn to accept help.