Dance Fever

I have been trying to try things in my life that keep me moving and bring me happiness.  So my next adventure was east coast swing dancing.  I started lessons about 4 weeks ago and let me tell you.....when I dance, it does not feel like I have Parkinson's.  It feels like I can just enjoy the movement and music and forget about the fact that I have a neurological disorder.  I know I might not always have this luxury as I my health declines, but for now, I strap on my dance shoes, and enjoy the moment.  

The massage therapist named Raul

Every two weeks I enjoy a 90 minute massage. It makes me feel somewhat normal for a couple days....what ever works!! My friends think I get this amazing rub down from a tan exotic man named Raul, or someone exotic. The truth of the matter is, Raul is actually a 95lbs blonde girl going to the local community college who has the magical gift of strong hands. It is a moment when I can be selfish and take time for myself. Everyone needs to find their Raul!

Can't talk about it...

I can not state details, due to confidentiality......but this week, as a therapist, I have sat and absorbed so much emotion.  It seemed like the world was going through pain and all I could do is listen.  I am blessed....but there are some days that I wish I have magic wand to make every one's pain go away. 

Social Network is everywhere!!

As much as I get annoyed with the immersion of Facebook, I do have to admit that it is a great way to keep people with Parkinson's communicating and encouraging each other.  With that said, I have created a page for "Parkinson's in Balance" which will help with updates and comments about the program I run.  Please check it out and hopefully post something on the "wall".......let's get this page moving!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Parkinsons-in-Balance/216260998411944

Another year..

I used to prepare months ahead of time for my birthday.  Where would I hold my party?  Who would I invite?  But as you get older, you find yourself forgetting how old you really are.  Isn't it crazy that when we are younger, we count half years as monumental moments.....i.e. I am 6 and a half years old.  But now, it takes me a moment to remember my exact age!  Happy Birthday Me!

The switch

I guess that it happens to everyone at some point in their life where the switch happens.  When the children begin to take care of their parents, who had in the past been the caregivers.  With my Dad being ill, I have know learned what it feels like to feel like the parent.  Such worry and fear, but most of all, you would like to have the power to make everything all better.  It is one of life's cruel jokes.

The other side of the scalpel

Due to my medical history, I have always viewed Doctors as mythical creatures, like a unicorn.  I remember the first time that I saw my surgeon shopping with his family at the grocery store.  I stared at him like I had just seen the white rabbit from "Alice in Wonderland".  How could he possibly be shopping at the store that us mere mortals went for groceries?

But now that I am working out of a Neurosurgeon's office, it gives the word "Doctor" a whole new meaning.  They are just normal people like you and I.  Life's little lessons....