I have a few concerns regarding my 'possible' PD stuff. Technically, I do not yet have a diagnosis that is 100%. When it comes time for me to apply for a job and take a drug test, I think it will be necessary for me to reveal any medications that I take. When I list my PD meds, is that something that I should have to explain? Do you think that will bring up concerns about whether or not I am capable of performing the CNA job that I want? Of course, I know that I am capable at this point and I am very much looking forward to my new career. I just don't want any future employers to look at me differently than they would any other prospective employee. It is not something that I want to reveal at all. I am just not quite sure how to handle this and would appreciate hearing from those of you that have a little more experience under your belts. As a matter of fact, I think I will post this question as a new post. I appreciate any responses.

Evonne

or selegeline or deprynl (all the same) will turn up positive for methamphetamine, or so I read somewhere long ago.

I am taking Zelepar(Selegiline) and Mirapex. I thought I should add this information just in case it is helpful.

where I work they do random drug testing. I have been tested 2 times recently. I believe the drugs they are concerned about are alcohol, marijuana, narcotic pain killers, etc, but not medication used to treat specific conditions such as parkinsons. I told my boss I had parkinsons when I was diagnosed but I had been working here for awhile. In your case, since you haven't officially been diagnosed I would not volunteer that information at all unless asked. It should not effect your employment and ability to work hopefully for a long time. There are alot of people working with parkinsons, ms, and other conditions. More power to you. The work should keep you mentally stimulated and be good for you physically. I would be excited too if I were in your shoes. Good luck with your schooling.

You brought up a good point, Evonne. It's up to you to decide.

But... we're covered under the ADA. Here's an article from the website:

http://www.udel.edu/CSC/disclosure.html

To Tell or Not to Tell: Disclosure...That is the Question

WHAT IS DISCLOSURE?
Disclosure is the process of informing a potential employer that you have a disability. Many people are unsure as to whether or not they should inform potential employers about their disabilities, and at what point it would be appropriate to disclose this information.

DO I HAVE TO TELL POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS ABOUT MY DISABILITY?You are not required to tell potential employers about your disability, and they cannot ask you about your condition. Disclosure is a personal choice dependent upon type of disability, how the disability will effect your work and your personal feelings. Explaining your disability and how it will effect your work is recommended, because most potential employers feel very positively towards those applicants whom they feel have been completely honest with them.

WHEN SHOULD I DISCLOSE MY DISABILITY?
There are several appropriate times to disclose your disability to a potential employer. You should decide when you would feel the most comfortable making this disclosure.

• Application - Never state your disability under the health section of an employment application. This reinforces the stereotype that people with disabilities are unhealthy.
• Resume - If you have had work experience (paid or volunteer) that is related to your disability, be sure to include it on your resume. However, never state your disability at the top of your resume, since this implies that you feel that it is a very important aspect of the job search process.
• Cover Letter - Disclosing in a cover letter is appropriate, especially if your work experience clearly indicates that you have a disability. (See example). If you choose to disclose in your cover letter, you may want to staple the letter to the back of your resume so that the employer reads about your abilities before learning the specifics about your disability. Be aware that disclosing in a cover letter may lessen your chances of being granted an interview in some cases.
• Interview Confirmation - Many people choose to disclose at this point. It would be very difficult for the employer to back out of the interview at this late time. Also, employers react more favorably to this type of disclosure than to the "shock" tactic. (See #5). When you call to confirm your interview, be sure to talk directly to the person who will be interviewing you.

(See example).

Interview - Some people do not disclose their disabilities, and simply show up at the interview, "shocking" the interviewer. This tactic is not recommended, since employers often feel unprepared, embarrassed, and even hostile. The first five minutes of the interview are the most important, and you do not want to spend them in uncomfortable silence.
No matter when you decide to disclose, you will want to present your disability in the most positive way possible. Make sure to discuss the following:

Disclose your disability - you do not need to go into extensive detail.
Describe your skills and specifically how you will do the job.
Show that you are aware of attitudinal barriers that you may encounter in an office, and be prepared to discuss how you make others feel more comfortable around you.

Mention that you do not expect special treatment.
Specify that you have references to verify your work experience upon request.

The most important aspect of disclosing your disability is presenting yourself as a problem-solver rather than a problem-creator. You are someone who can do the job and help work towards greater productivity. Above all, you can compete on equal terms with people who do not have disabilities.


DISCLOSING DURING THE INTERVIEW CONFIRMATION (SAMPLE)
Call to confirm the interview. Make sure to ask to speak directly with the person who will be conducting the interview.
Confirm the date, time, and location of the interview.
Disclose your disability. Example: "I want to be frank with you. I use a wheelchair because my legs are paralyzed as a result of an accident. However, I assure you that my disability will not effect my ability to work or my attendance record. I wanted to let you know about my disability in advance to avoid catching you off guard at the interview. Please feel free during the course of the interview to address any questions or concerns about how my disability might affect my work performance."
Close the conversation positively. "Thank you for your time. I am looking forward to meeting with you and discussing the possibilities for employment.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR DISCLOSURE
Harold Stone
113 Bay St.
Tuckahoe, NJ 08003


Ms. Elizabeth Trent
Personnel Director
Mann Industries, Inc.
2356 Sutter Pike
Ritter, NJ 08836


Dear Ms. Trent,

I am responding to your advertisement for an assistant in your finance department. As I have stated on my resume, I graduate with a B.S. in Business, with a concentration in finance. I worked as an intern at Dean Witter, Inc. for the duration of my senior year.

In addition to my experience at Dean Witter, Inc., I have worked as a volunteer leader at the YMCA of Tuckahoe for the past three years. I feel that this experience has helped me learn how to work effectively with others in a supervisory capacity.

I wish to be honest with you. I have used a wheelchair since my tenth birthday, due to an automobile accident. My disability does not interfere in any way with my ability to perform the skills needed in a finance department. I would be happy to answer any questions that you may have concerning this matter.

I hope that I will have the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications for this position. I will call you in a few days to arrange an interview at a mutually convenient time.

Sincerely,



Harold Stone
Enclosure

Thanks, John! I found all of this information very helpful. I wish I would have read it earlier today. I hope that I didn't make a mistake. I actually spoke with the nurse that is teaching my CNA class this afternoon. First, I mentioned that if employment is offered at the end of this class, I am aware that I will need to pass a drug test. Then, I told her that one of the medications that I take, Selegiline, will show up as an amphetamine. She told me that as long as it is prescribed by a doctor, that is not a problem. I also told her that the reason I am taking that medication is because I am being treated for a movement disorder, most likely PD. She seemed surprised and told me that she was sorry to hear that. I asked her if, in her opinion, I would be able to perform the duties of a CNA and be employed. She said,"Yes." I told her that I am doing good on my meds and that I function very well. I told her that I hoped that what I revealed didn't change anything regarding how she sees me or affect any future opportunities. She replied, "Absolutely not!" I explained that I feel that honesty is the best policy and that I just wanted to get it out in the open. She kind of chuckled and said that it would have been strange to have my drug test come back positive for Amphetamines without knowing about my meds. Guess that is a good thing...I don't fit the mold for a meth head!

I guess only time will tell if I made the right decision or not. I have to say, it feels like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders...that is a good thing!

Evonne, as an employer, I can say it is best to be told.

In an emergancy situation, having that information can be a life saver.

Accidents happen that have nothing to do with an illness. Knowing what info to pass on to EMT's is very important. I have been there with an employee who was taking several RX's. It was a good thing I knew what she was taking.

Dear Evonne,
Your posts have really touched a nerve for me because two and a half years ago when I was hired at my health care position I chose not to tell them I had been diagnosed with PD a year before. I was afraid that I would be discriminated against. Having worked a long time in the health care field (for 26 years) I thought having a disability that was seen as very debilitating would be detrimental to my employment. To make it even worse I was asked to disclose if I had one of about 3 rare diseases, and yes, Parkinson's disease. I did NOT want to lie, But I did. The form asked me to sign saying I didn't have the illness, and also if I needed any help for a disability, AND if I didn't tell the truth I'd be in big trouble, Like fired I think. I did not get their free health insurance. I plan to never use the disabilty insurance that was included with my employment. Today, it gets harder and harder to hide this illness, but in looking back, I do think I made the right decision for me, but some days it is so HARD to keep on keeping on. I cannot look ill, I have to stay upbeat, be very competent, Do my job really well so nobody thinks I'm ill. You have avoided those consequences of not disclosing and I applaud your honesty! All the best Evonne, in your job quest! Way to go! FG

FG,

Thanks for your encouraging words. As I said, only time will tell if I did the right thing or not. I do feel pretty good about it, but I am a little scared that it might backfire on me!

I am sorry that you feel like you have to put on a front at work when you are not feeling well. I know how it feels to feel bad and have to go on just like an ordinary person. On top of PD, I am also a type 1 diabetic. It is a real roller coaster ride some days! I totally relate to it being hard just to keep on keeping on. There are mornings when I feel so stiff, achy, rigid and shaky. I sometimes ask myself what in the world am I doing??? The reality is that I don't know what I would be doing if I weren't doing this. I have had days when I didn't even want to get out of bed and face the world. PD is a pretty devastating thing to be facing. The nature of the disease is ugly, but it is reality and I accept it. My goal from this point on in my life is to make the most of each day that I am able to do the things that I want to do. I am grateful for all of the blessings in my life and I hope to be able to be a blessing to others. FG, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hang in there!

Evonne

Evonne,

I don't think you made a mistake. As long as you don't make a big deal out of it, the job interview and subsequent job should go fine. Remember stay positive, keep the ol' chin up and smile.

I'm out looking for a new job too because I don't know how long mine will last. We're here on a month-to-month basis. I have great insurance benefits now so I don't want to fight with or bite the hand that feeds me, but at the same time I have to do what's right. In the mean time, I interview in my spare time, and work every day with a smile and dedication like I've always had.

Good luck,

John