its probably a gaggle of brits, I tried to bond with my US friends with comments re. the Patriots earlier but no joy

Howard is probably a pride of New Zealanders as he always says what I am thinking so much better than I am able to.

Imark, no offence meant at your comment, I think your contribution to this forum has been tremendous. Your comment reminded me of an actor (name I cannot remember), who picked up a long service award. He claimed this was awarded to him just for being alive.

Sometimes when I tell people I have PD I feel they think the fact that I am still living is an accomplishment. What is the alternative ?

Take care,
Neil.

Dear Doc John,
I was finally dxd in April 1994 but was told many times because of my age - being 29 -30 ish was too young - I wish
- my neurologist has seen a great improvement in the effectiveness of my PD meds since I /his patient my neuro realizes that the levodopa -carbidopa depletes the body of potassium and the B vitamins -especially B-12 methylcobalamine - sublingual. and folic acid ...
There is a woman Named Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD
she is a registered dietitian who specializes in nutrition for PD patients -
I met her at a gala in California -She moderates the National Parkinsons Foundation forum -which is online still -on a forum called Ask the Parkinson's
Dietitian...
http://www.nutritionucanlivewith.com/sitemap.htm
http://www.nutritionucanlivewith.com/
this will help you help your Dad...

Thanks IMark, Judith, Rick and others for your views. Not only are we all different in our symptoms, but in our views on how we express our ideas and feelings about the disease. I think there is a sizeable group who set out not only to live as normal a life as possible, but to squeeze that little bit extra out of it, despite PD. Achievements after diagnosis count for double, and this is the way to encourage and inspire the newly diagnosed. We should not hold back from informing them what lies ahead, for fear of frightening them. If they know what one can do despite the disability, the whole story is less fearful.
IMark, I think your English is perfect, better than many "native speakers", so please don't apologise for it. I agree with Aftermathman, I enjoy your contributions.
Aftermathman, I don't think IMark is suggesting that we award points for simply "long service" in PD, after diagnosis, but I liked your comment about picking up a long service award for just being alive!! It reminds me of my early days when I started to run a large chemical factory, and I was giving a talk to nearly 200 employees, warning them we faced closure unless we made greater efforts. A disruptive person called Mick heckled me, and I replied, "Mick, survival is not compulsory". The whole audience exploded with laughter, and Mick never heckled again. However, when you think about it, survival is not compulsory with or without PD, but if you have it, you may as well be determined to enjoy life, squeeze that extra bit out of it while you can, and be the best role model you can.
So a very Happy, healthy and successful New Year to all.
Ron

Thanks Neil: I only want to say that my admiration to many members of the forum is very genuine. I am marveled by their knowledge, capacity for research, fighting spirit and kindness.
This goes for you Ron: you made my point in your last comment. Thanks again.
Finally I thank every body ... I have gained from all your contributions which helped me to deal with my PD.