I'm not sure where you live but Partners in Parkinson's events scheduled around the country are designed to help patients/families navigate the disease with a particular focus on getting to the right specialist. But, much is shared about the journey around diagnosis and for instance one of the break out sessions features patients sharing about how they broke the news to family, colleagues etc.

More information on upcoming events at www.Partnersinparkinsons.org

Best, Debi

PS ... the website also has a finder that helps identify movement disorder specialists by geography but perhaps you've already landed with an MDS. As Gary mentioned, that is critical.

"My doc said many people dont take rx at first but I may want to try it within 5 years..."

Hi Elaine, Just wanted to ask--are you seeing a Motion Disorders Specialist (as others have recommended)? If you have a pattern of symptoms sufficient to justify a clinical diagnosis, you most likely could benefit from some kind of treatment. Many people start with Azilect which has a mild symptomatic effect. It's rather old school to wait until a person is quite disabled to start treatment so it makes me think you are talking to a GP or general neurologist. My MDS treats me with the goal of keeping me active and involved in my community. This video was recommended to me by people on this forum. It illustrates the current line of thinking about starting meds in early PD (especially the third segment).

http://www.theparkinsonsgroup.com/webcasts.asp

It took me a couple of years to adjust to my diagnosis. Good for you that you are taking it with such grace.
Kim

We'll stated , Kim!

Hello. New to board. Sorry about your news. My mother had Parkinson's. It was a long journey. I was just diagnosed with Sjogren's. I told my family I was relieved to have a diagnosis, but unfortunately their was no cure. Do not feel sorry for me! Don't try and limit me! Do not push me! And number #1 RESPECT my daily changes of levels of function & pain & do not, I REPEAT,do not try and judge my pain. Pass the potatoes please.