Updates and Other Stuff

Working the Speed Bag

Rock Steady Boxing Update: The classes continue to go well and Jamey is getting some benefit. He can actually get out of his chair once in awhile throughout the day and that is a big deal! In addition, word is apparently getting out, because we have had a lot more visitors sitting in to see if it will be a good fit for them. I'm sure we will be adding students.

We recently learned the Rock Steady series we attend is the only certified Rock Steady program in the area. Which means that people come from below Sacramento all the way up to Nevada City to attend (that's about a 75 mile coverage). It would be great if there were another one closer to home, but this seems to be it for now. Jamey's neurologist told us that to be a certified Rock Steady Program the owner/operator must attend training back east for two weeks. Since that is a luxury not many people can afford, I understand why there are not more doing it. But, thankfully, the owner/coach of our group is passionate about it. It does take us about 45 minutes to get there but others are travelling farther than that, so I am thankful.

Claudine; our Girl Friday, and More

Caregiver Update: We now have help 3 mornings a week, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 9AM to 1PM. Claudine is an awesome caregiver and makes Jamey's breakfast and lunch each of those days. She shaves, showers and dresses him as well, so it gives me a wonderful break during that time. I often go out shopping or sew, or do something else relaxing. She is a God-send. She's also strong and tall so has no problem lifting Jamey or tending to his other needs. He feels safe with her, unlike his last caregiver. Her personality is wonderful and she talks just enough for Jamey's taste (which means, not much). We hope she never leaves us (I know that's unrealistic, but I can dream, can't I?).

ASL Update: While it is a good idea, and it has helped a little, Jamey has difficulty remembering which sign is which (see last post, Concentration=Exhaustion: PD Related Problems). And, because he can't always get his body to work properly, he sometimes cannot get both of his hands to do the sign he needs, either. All in all, for him, I don't think ASL is the best way to communicate. We will have to continue verbal communication and just hope we can understand one another. The only time it is really difficult is when we are in his boxing class where music and cooling fans are loud. Usually, at home, we can muddle through!

PANC CONFERENCE: We weren't planning to attend this year's Parkinson's Association of Northern California Educational Conference, but once Dr. Khandhar asked Jamey to go personally, that took care of that! Dr. K is speaking, as are several of the Neuro PT's that Jamey and I know. The conference this year will include topics that pertain to us in particular: Early Onset (or Young Onset), Surgical Interventions, Nutrition and the Art of Movement to name a few. In addition, there is always a question and answer time (photo below is Dr. K answering a question during such). It will be held at the McClellan Conference Center (of airbase fame) in Sacramento. If you'll be anywhere close to there on September 22, go online and sign up ahead of time. You won't be disappointed!