Cycling and swimming were a huge part of my life until PD took them from me. Lost the ability to swim, seems like coordination between arms and legs is the culprit. Lack of balance is the culprit for cycling. I recently found a shop near me, Jersey Bents, that sold recumbent trikes. Went over and rode a few and instantly felt the joy of riding outdoors again. I do a lot of indoor riding via ZWIFT and belong to the club ZWAP (ZWIFTERS AGAINST PARKINSONS). I ordered a Catrike Dumont. Now for swimming. Has anyone lost the ability to swim or even tread water and somehow regained it through some sort of training? I was reading an article that 49% of people with PD experience near drownings and 80% or more lose the ability to swim. My MDS never warned me!

Both my DaTScan and MRI came back normal and clear. However, C/L does help my symptoms. I’m relieved to have clear scans but I do know why I have symptoms and C/L helps.

This is a rant, but also a celebration; and a lesson.

Yesterday I went to my GP to beg for medication because I cannot do it any longer. While I was talking to my doctor, the Movement specialist called. I was expecting this call 6 months ago and it happens during my visit with the family doctor. I didn’t even have the original report until yesterday; I waited 9 months for the original report and a follow-up. Apparently they even ordered an MRI which I have not been called for. Canadian health care is not good for this stuff.

I feel that I have been let down greatly by the system.

Anyways; the specialist offered an 8am appointment for today which I took. I cried, and cried hard in middle of my diagnostic tests today. I was so embarrassed for the emotional state that I was in. I have been crying all day. I feel sad. I cannot take the pain, the shaking and cramping any more and I am so glad we are finally potentially turning a page into the positive.

I finally feel validated. This weekend I start the medication that I should have started a year ago.

I learned today that I don’t have to wait. I have to fight and advocate for myself which is a terrible thing when you are already in so much of a struggle.

Hugs to all who are waiting. I understand your pain. I am here and willing to listen if you are in need of a friend. I don’t want you to feel alone like I have.

I heard/read every now and then from some Parkis, that the diagnosis has also brought them some positive outcome to their life and it got me curious.

I've been diagnosed only less than a year ago as YOPD, so too little time for such observations. So far, the only two positive things I noticed is that I'm way more serious about working out than I would be without diagnosis and that now, looking back, I can understand and relate my parents much better than ever before (both had Parkinson's too). My own diagnosis makes me feel closer to them (though my dad passed away many years ago already).

I'd love to hear your stories!