Jamey's Neurologist recommended it. As it turns out, he is on the board for PANC and was involved in the program that day. What a great opportunity for us to attend.There was no charge to us and the day included several guest speakers (one of which was Davis Phinney, professional cyclist and winner of Tour de France, diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 40). There was a nice lunch, lots of movement to music (at our table), good suggestions, visitation with fellow Parkinson's sufferers, and lots of resources!One of the other nice things about this seminar was the comfortable way to get to know other PD sufferers. There were no ice breakers where you need to tell others your most embarrassing moment, or what you had for dinner the night before.There were about 60 tables of 10, throughout the room, and we were told to sit wherever we liked. We had seven other people at our table, each with varying degrees of the disease or in attendance for a loved one with the disease. We were not required to talk with anyone at the table, but it was a natural bi-product of the day. Jamey doesn't like to converse, but I'm uncomfortable with silence among people I don't know, so I asked questions of the people at our table and found out a lot about how the disease manifests in others. Jamey in turn, opened up a little as well.
It was an informal meeting where you can get up and move if needed, go out to the many booths, or even leave early if you want. The lunch was nice (also no charge) and allowed us another opportunity to chat with others at our table. It was worthwhile and very well planned.
You'd think we had nothing more to learn about this disease after having it over 20 years, but it's a sneaky little bugger and it never ceases to surprise us. Looking over the assembly, it was clear we were close to the youngest, if not THE youngest couple there. And we were also the couple who had been dealing with the disease the longest. Interesting, I thought. But, we both came away with new information, a renewed appreciation for others and a vow to return again to learn more!
This year's PANC conference is scheduled for October 21. We've decided not to attend this year for various reasons, but as Jamey's PD progresses we find we need these types of programs more and more. We plan to bring our daughters and their husbands to the next conference (family members, or friends, may attend for a small fee).It's a great way for loved ones to learn about the disease and how to assist family members going through it.
I encourage you to find a similar program in your neighborhood. Like us, you might just learn something new!
*If you do not live in Northern California and are looking for something in your area, search APDA (American Parkinson's Disease Association). Their website has information about seminars, support groups, etc.
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