I was formally diagnosed with PD in May 2006. I had been "treated" for Essential Tremor since 1998....I was 35.

I worked in law enforcement for many years, then medically retired due to an injury unrelated to PD jn 1994. I went to work in healthcare as an ER Supervisor.

My neuro & pysch both warned me that stress and fatigue are the enemy. I lasted four more months before I had to admit they were right, between work and my son having nearly died in a suicide bombing in Iraq (July 2006), I went out on disability in October 2006.

I mourned those losses for awhile, then I picked myself up, gave YOPD the middle finger and went back to figure skating, working out at the gym, took up quilting and crochet.

I try to spend my time focused on my abilities and gains, not the losses.

Kim (Kimberly?)

Those are my sentiments exactly. Though I'd still love to contribute to my profession and feel that I can to an extent, I'm just not sure that I can do it full-time. What makes it difficult for me is the need to hide my symptoms; I am currently seeking a position and have to make it through interviews while my meds are not predictably working for me- I have seen my neuro but tweaking things takes time. Some days, I'm incapacitated by dizziness that I attribute to Mirapex; I actually have to lie down for an hour before it goes away. If I felt I was in control and making the choice, I wouldn't mourn having to give up my career. Since I feel it's the PD making decisions for me, I feel out of control and that drives me batty.

Peony- Welcome to the forum. I enjoyed reading your experience. Oddly, a few studies show educational and medical professionals have a higher rate of PD. Who knows? Please, I hope you continue to share with us.

-Laura

this is a wonderful thread. got behind in reading.

i taught for 8 years after diagnosis; 11-12 with symptoms. Special education.

i quit when i had no energy left to recover from work.

paula

pkell i'm so happy to see you're here.

Thank you Paula, it's nice to be remembered. Lots of water under the bridge.