Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
PD Statistics & Cost:
Statistics on Parkinson's
Who Has Parkinson's?
As many as one million Americans live with Parkinson's disease, which is more than the combined number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease.
Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease each year, and this number does not reflect the thousands of cases that go undetected.
An estimated seven to 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson's disease.
Incidence of Parkinson’s increases with age, but an estimated four percent of people with PD are diagnosed before the age of 50.
Men are one and a half times more likely to have Parkinson's than women.
What Does Parkinson's Cost?
The combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson’s, including treatment, social security payments and lost income from inability to work, is estimated to be nearly $25 billion per year in the United States alone.
Medication costs for an individual person with PD average $2,500 a year, and therapeutic surgery can cost up to $100,000 dollars per patient.
Information obtained from: http://www.pdf.org
I thought you might find this interesting. And still no one can find a cure!
Lovingly, Always A Diva
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Friday, July 27, 2012
PD Book for children:
“Parkinson’s is devastating,” says Kay Mixson Jenkins, author of the new children’s book Who Is Pee Dee? “The good news is that because of research like this, people might be able better protect themselves from the devastating, chronic disease.”
Ms. Jenkins was diagnosed with PD when she was just thirty-four. She decided to write her book to help her children understand the disease. The story follows a young boy named Colt as he tries to deal with his mother’s chronic illness.
Parkinson’s disease affects up to 1.5 million people in the US. The illness typically develops in later life and often impairs motor skills, speech and other functions.
While the causes of PD are still unidentified, many researchers believe that head traumas can raise the chances of getting the disease and suggest avoiding such injuries by:
• Wearing a helmet when biking, riding a motorcycle, or playing sports like football, ice hockey, skiing or snowboarding.
• Wearing a seatbelt while in a car.
• Buckling your child into a safety seat.
• Preventing falls.
“Boxing and football remain dangerous sports that can have serious effects on the health of their players,” says Ms. Jenkins. “The government must enact safety regulations for these sports in order to protect athletes from injuries and traumas.”
In addition to creating Who Is Pee Dee?, Ms. Jenkins is a leader in a nationwide effort to raise awareness about PD. As the founder of Parkinson’s in the Park, an affiliated chapter of the National Parkinson Foundation, Ms. Jenkins has created an outreach program that encourages families and friends to participate in the treatment of PD patients.
Kay Mixson Jenkins is the Georgia state co-coordinator for the Parkinson’s Action Network, leads the Effingham County Parkinson’s support group and was selected as a Parkinson’s patient advocate for UCB, Inc.
Who Is Pee Dee? Explaining Parkinson’s Disease to a Child by Kay Mixson Jenkins is available on Amazon.com.
For more information, contact the author directly at kmj@ParkinsonsInThePark.org.
Welcome!
~Lovingly Always A Diva
Bravelets - Get Yours Today!!
Bravelets™ bracelets are made to help you be brave during tough times. Wear it proudly for yourself or for a loved one.
This bracelet is made of 316L stainless steel and genuine leather. With every bracelet purchased, $10 will be donated to fight Parkinson’s!
They are $35 @ http://www.bravelets.com/product/parkinsons-bracelet/
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Book: Marijuana for Parkinson's Disease
Marijuana for Parkinson's Disease by Author Richard Secklin
Pharmaceutical use of cannabis is not new and history shows us how this miracle plant has been misinterpreted through an era of ignorance. Cannabis has been used for thousands of years and the credibility of marijuana as a therapy specifically for Parkinson’s disease is somewhat new. Marijuana is a miracle plant that helps Parkinson’s patients and benefits people suffering from many other illnesses. A prospective analysis from a Parkinson’s patient.
What is presently a controversial subject matter as many States one by one approve the medicinal use of marijuana, this new research book should help provide medical support for new legislation. This is an interesting insight from the author who is a retired career law enforcement officer and Parkinson’s patient. His first book, "Looking Down the Barrel," a Parkinson's disease self help spiritual book was put in print by Nettfit Publishing in 2010.
Note: This book can be purchased @ Amazon.com
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Stars turn out for HollyRod fundraiser!
-Courtesy of Society News LA
Photo: Enjoying the HollyRod fundraiser, from left, are Elise Neal of "Scream 2," Holly Robinson Peete, Yvette Nicole Brown of "Community" and celebrity stylist Elgin Charles. Courtesy of Elise Neal.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Lotsa Helping Hands:
*Free care-giving service that I found @ http://www.apdaparkinson.org/. It is very helpful and I will be using this service when I move on my own. ~Lovingly Always A Diva
Lotsa Helping Hands is a private, web-based caregiving coordination service that allows family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues to create a community to assist a family caregiver with the daily tasks that become a challenge during times of medical crisis, caregiver exhaustion, or when caring for an elderly parent.
www.LotsaHelpingHands.com
Monday, July 23, 2012
I found on Facebook:
Lovingly, Always A Diva
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Laughter is the best medicine! Try it today!!!
Lovingly, Always A Diva
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Friday, July 20, 2012
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Weight Training Improves Parkinson’s Symptoms:
--Twice-Weekly Resistance Training Sessions Can Improve Tremors, Slowness, and Rigidity--
Weight training twice a week may reduce the stiffness, slowness, and tremors often seen in people with Parkinson’s disease, a new study shows.
A progressive neurologic disease, Parkinson’s affects up to 1 million people in the U.S. Symptoms include tremors and difficulty with movement and walking. The study shows that weight training for two years trumps stretching and balance exercises for these so-called motor symptoms.
The findings are to be presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology in New Orleans.
In the study, 48 people with Parkinson’s disease participated in a weight-training program or another program aimed at improving flexibility, balance, and strength. Participants exercised for one hour twice a week for two years. They were aged 59, on average, and had had Parkinson’s for about seven years.
Everyone saw benefits after six months, but these benefits lasted two years among those in the weight-training group.
Specifically, people in the weight-training group saw a 7.3-point improvement after two years on a measure that combines symptoms of Parkinson’s into a single score. “The three cardinal signs of Parkinson’s disease are slowness, tremor, and rigidity, and weight training will help all of these,” says researcher Daniel Corcos, PhD, of the University of Illinois at Chicago. “Our study shows weightlifting twice a week is helpful and you should try to work all of your muscle groups.”
It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise regimen.
“Anyone can do it, from the newly diagnosed to people with advanced Parkinson’s in wheelchairs. It is never too late to start,” Corcos says.
People in wheelchairs may be able to exercise their ankles using resistance bands, for example.
By Denise Mann
WebMD Health News - 2/16/2012
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Tuesday Tell All!
Hello Readers,
I would like to tell you that I have passed through that last cycle feeling so much better!! After coming home from the hospital, I received six weeks of in home care for OT and Physical Therapy. I would like to thank the ladies who helped me through that painful time. (I already thanked God) The exercises and healthy lifestyle changes have helped to minimize the pain and get the muscles moving again.
I wasn't prepared for that episode of discomfort and pain in my body, as none of us living with PD or any other kind of disease are either. But I was glad to know that they're places where you can get help and inexpensive ways you can train your body to cooperate for a little while :). I am up and moving around better and even my children have commented on how much better I'm doing.
I have still have some pain but as the doctor asks you "on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the worst," I went from living each day a 10 to about a three on a good day. I don't have to take pain medicine every four hours but maybe once a day and a couple of days none!
That is why I post positive quotes about not giving up and finding strength through positive people. If you don't believe in God, find you a higher power of inspiration and spirituality that can help you daily. It will work. I have test it and passed with an A for outstanding! Don't give up and continue to follow me on this journey!
Lovingly, Always A Diva
I would like to tell you that I have passed through that last cycle feeling so much better!! After coming home from the hospital, I received six weeks of in home care for OT and Physical Therapy. I would like to thank the ladies who helped me through that painful time. (I already thanked God) The exercises and healthy lifestyle changes have helped to minimize the pain and get the muscles moving again.
I wasn't prepared for that episode of discomfort and pain in my body, as none of us living with PD or any other kind of disease are either. But I was glad to know that they're places where you can get help and inexpensive ways you can train your body to cooperate for a little while :). I am up and moving around better and even my children have commented on how much better I'm doing.
I have still have some pain but as the doctor asks you "on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the worst," I went from living each day a 10 to about a three on a good day. I don't have to take pain medicine every four hours but maybe once a day and a couple of days none!
That is why I post positive quotes about not giving up and finding strength through positive people. If you don't believe in God, find you a higher power of inspiration and spirituality that can help you daily. It will work. I have test it and passed with an A for outstanding! Don't give up and continue to follow me on this journey!
Lovingly, Always A Diva
Monday, July 16, 2012
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Friday, July 13, 2012
Intimacy in Relationships with PD: Positive information!
Sexual relationships are a normal, healthy part of adult life and having Parkinson’s disease should not deter people from continuing to enjoy intimate activities. However it is worth understanding that the disease can impact on people in different ways and some adjustments may need to be made.
Some people find their sex drive has all but disappeared since their diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. This can be a result of the worry and stress associated with any new circumstances and may gradually settle down as people learn to accept and cope better with the diagnosis. Fatigue is also a well-known cause of loss of interest in sex. Prioritising some time when you are rested and relaxed and symptoms are well controlled can help maintain an intimate relationship.
Parkinson’s disease may have a direct, adverse effect on erectile function in some men. People can be reluctant to talk about their sex life with their doctor but it is an important subject that can make a significant difference to your quality of life. Erectile dysfunction may be treated by specific medications or may be remedied by adjustments to the anti-Parkinson’s medications.
Parkinson’s disease can also interfere with sexual activity at an emotional level. People with the disease may not feel sexually attractive as their self-esteem may have taken a battering or they may be depressed. There may also be new issues arising in long-standing relationship especially as the disease progresses and one partner takes on a caring role for the other. It is therefore important to keep the lines of communication open. Talk to your partner about how you are feeling, how they are coping and what can be done to rejuvenate the relationship.
Don’t worry that sex may be too strenuous or exacerbate symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease. Physical activity is almost always a good thing. And a healthy sex life is likely to be a great comfort and a distraction from other day-to-day problems.
Sexual problems can arise completely independently of Parkinson’s disease. Ageing, menopause and other illnesses such as cardiovascular disease or prostate problems can all impact on sexual interest and activity. Check with your doctor if there are ongoing problems that need to be investigated.
Article courtesy of www.parkinsons.org
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Your Most Important Relationships: Your Spouse and Your Self
The most important relationship you will have throughout your PD is your relationship with yourself. You will need to find ways to nourish your spirit despite much adversity. You will need to find an inner spiritual core that can sustain you while you struggle to maintain a normal life despite PD’s daily intrusions. No one can tell you how to do this. No one but you knows what really recharges your batteries and imparts to you an inner calm, strength and fierceness. Whatever that thing is, that thing that gives you strength and a zest for life, you will need to nurture it and rely on it both to fight the PD and to keep your other relationships healthy and nourishing.
The second most important relationship for you, if already part of your life, will be your ‘significant other’ -- your spouse or primary companion. This person is the one who will witness your hardest moments and your brightest. You have got to find ways to graciously accept all of the help they are willing to give to you. You also need to learn the ropes of coping with PD together. As much as you can, help that person learn about PD, keep spirits up and remain intimate with you. She needs you and you need her. Rejoice in that fact. Believe it or not, PD and its challenges can actually deepen and strengthen your relationship.
Parkinson's disease can have an impact on the relationships you have -- sometimes for the good, sometimes not. But there are things you can do to deal with the effects your Parkinson's can have on connections with those close to you and foster the continuation of healthy and happy bonds.
Article taken from parkinsons.about.com
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Intimacy and Relationship in Parkinson's Disease:
Showing and receiving affection is an important part of life for every person, and maintaining a close and intimate relationship is a valuable support. The intimacy between partners can take many forms, and may include hugs, cuddles, loving words and gestures, or physical love making. However, changes can occur in any kind of relationship, and a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) often brings forward questions and concerns regarding relationships and intimacy.
In some cases, PD may alter the way in which a person feels about themselves, and may therefore make them feel less inclined towards physical closeness, including sexual activity. Whatever these concerns, the key factor is that they should be discussed. Partners should try to talk openly with each other about worries or feelings, as this can reduce tension, may resolve some concerns, and can also help to maintain closeness between a couple. In addition, people with PD should not be shy to ask for advice about relationship/sexual problems from medical professionals, PD organizations or counseling services. Many PD organizations also run help lines that offer confidential advice on all matters relating to people with PD and their partners.
http://www.parkinsononline
Tuesday Tell All~
I posted last week about relationships while living with PD. I haven't been successful but there is always that hope that I will find love and intimacy with that special someone. I say special because he will have to understand that while PD doesn't run my life, it is a big part of my life. I would also hope that special someone will understand that support is more important than intimacy.
I will post various concerns about this subject today and the rest of the week.
Lovingly Always A Diva
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Good Morning!
Hello Readers!
I haven't been posting in the last few days because the power was out, the cable television and the internet was out! Thank you Jesus everything is back on and working! I have missed posting to you my feelings and information. So next week starting Monday I'll continue posting about maintaining your relationships and marriage if you are living with PD. I am glad to be back!
Lovingly Always A Diva
I haven't been posting in the last few days because the power was out, the cable television and the internet was out! Thank you Jesus everything is back on and working! I have missed posting to you my feelings and information. So next week starting Monday I'll continue posting about maintaining your relationships and marriage if you are living with PD. I am glad to be back!
Lovingly Always A Diva
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Tuesday Tell All!
I am posting this week on whether you can have an intimate relationship or keep the relationship together if you are living with PD. Speaking from my own personal experience, I have not been able to maintain a relationship.
When I was first told that I had PD, I was with my now ex-husband. He was very supported with what I was going through and helped me through the first stage. I was blessed to have him in my life at that time because I was an emotional wreck. We did not divorce because of PD but of other issues that sometimes creep into a normal marriage. He still keeps in touch with me and would do anything to help me.
As I began to approach stage two of PD, I was in a relationship with someone who eventually gave up because I required a little too much time. He wanted the normal Diva not the Diva who needed balancing between medicines and doctor appointments (lol). I felt a little upset, at first, that he responded that way but I understood his feelings. Living with PD was a disruption for me and my loved ones so I couldn't blame him because he didn't understand what I go through on a day to day basis.
I sometimes miss having someone in my life but I don't dwell on being without a significant other. I'm feeling good right now at this stage of PD. The doctor's have me on medications that are working for my body and my children and family are a great source of support for me. I enjoy sharing my life by posting on this blog and I'm thankful. It could be worse!
I believe that if you don't have grounded and solid relationships or marriages before you are diagnosed with any disease, it won' t work. So if you do have that person who is willing to go the distance, appreciate and love them daily!
~~Lovingly Always A Diva
Good Morning!
The happiest life is that which constantly exercises and educates what is best in us.
~Hamerton
Monday, July 2, 2012
Sunday, July 1, 2012
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*ATTITUDE*
~We Are Not Disabled~
*Hope*
*African Proverb*
*Living with PD*
~Choices~
*Strength*
*Words*
*Faces of PD*
*Live, Love and Enjoy Life*
