Hello all,

I couldn't wait to get back since my laptop is so slow on the net. I just got back (literally at 1230 this afternoon). Before I left I was taking 2 sinemet 25/100 every 2 hrs. That was my med regimen prior to DBS and resumed after it as well. I got good relief from the dyskinsea but I felt there was little improvement in my motor function. I know this was not wholly the case because I could turn off the stimulator and I would be crawling so it had improved my motor function but not to the extent that I would have liked. All in all the DBS drastically improved my life. The problem was that none of the neurologists in this area wanted to treat me because I could not get my meds lower. The most they wanted was 5 tablets a day!! Please, I'd be in bed or in a corner. That was the picture prior to the visit to Shands...

Today I am on the second day with my new settings. It is now about 4 o'clock in the afternoon and I have taken 1/2 a tablet this morning at 7:15 and 1 tablet at 3 o'clock. They have told me to take some medications and not to stop the sinemet abruptly but I don't feel as though I need ANY meds. Since we have been home I have:
1. Walked the dog.
2. Gone to home depot and petsmart, (my daughter drove me.)
3. Put away the suitcase after unpacking.
4. Started some laundry.

I feel like they took the time and found the settings that worked for me. There is so much to say, the people are phenominal!!!! If you are near Gainesville, and need care, GET THERE! If you have a medicare plan, one of those advantage plans the PFFS part works a lot easier than the HMO. No primary care gatekeeper crap to go through. Just GET THERE! I can't promise anything except that the people are great and in my opinion if there''s anyone that can help you they can! I feel great so far. They told me the settings were just getting established and that the 3rd or 4th day (Thursday or Friday) would truly let me see how it works. They also gave me an "emergency" appointment to get back in on Friday if this isn't working and they are going to follow me for the rest of my PD care. Hooooray!!!

And the football coach makes millions-hhhhhhmmm.