We live in a world of faster is better: food-service, information and news, data/technology, and most everything else. In a society expecting speed and instant gratification, someone with Parkinson’s disease (PD) or any neurological disorder is at a distinct disadvantage. When time is considered money and faster is better, the individual with PD suffers because he or she may lack the ability to move into fifth gear. What the person with PD does receive is the opportunity and challenge of learning true patience and the ability to learn to live in the moment.
Part of living with PD is the act of acceptance. This does not mean that you don’t continue to seek bettering yourself and finding therapies, but it means accepting that you are different and finding comfort in your own skin. Finding the balance in one’s life is a constant challenge. When illness is involved, if not put into perspective, can compound the stress and anxiety of basic daily living.
Coming to grips with your illness may take time and effort. In many cases it may seem impossible, but it isn’t. Seek out the part of you that is able to navigate the inner workings of your mind, body, and soul (spirit) to realize that this is a challenge, but one that you can meet. We are stronger and more capable than we know. Adversity can bring out the very best in us and release strengths that we forgot we ever had. Part of accepting an illness is keeping up the necessary search for relief and bettering oneself through proper nutrition, exercise, medical care, good drug management, and willingness to explore non-invasive complimentary therapies that may potentially improve one’s condition. An open and flexible mind may serve you well in seeking answers and solutions concerning your condition.
