Do You Really Have Parkinson's?
I was talking with a fellow Parkinson's patient last weekend. He mentioned that his primary physician said to him "Are you sure you have Parkinson's?"
It seems to be a common question. I get it occasionally, even from my primary physician.
I'm part of a Facebook Parkinson's support group. Lots of Parky newbies. They hear it a lot. They're new. Their symptoms aren't quite as visable. "You really have Parkinson's?"
It really fucking pisses me off!!!
It's as if people want to see your symptoms on demand. Where's Joe Pesci when you really need him? Am I a clown? Do I amuse you?
Some of us don't have the tremors you'd expect to see. Those that do take meds to control them.
Most of us look fine when you are with us. Here's what you don't see.... Sleeping on a train after being in the sun all day at a football game. Falling asleep on a kitchen table after spending a day at a picnic. Taking a three hour nap because you can't sleep at night. Still exhausted after the nap. Not being able to sign a check because your hand won't move. Having your clothes look like shit because you're constantly spilling food on them. Walking into a wall for no apparent reason.
By the way, it's not just Parkinson's. I know people with other chronic illnesses that get the same comment. I'm sure it's not meant to be hurtful but....
Here's the thing...every case is different. There's nothing black and white. Lots of shades of gray. Once again EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT!!
So the next time you want to say to someone "You don't look like you have (fill in your disease of choice)?", try this instead..."You look pretty good for someone yada, yada, yada!"
Be supportive. If you can't, then just shut the fuck up!!
I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore!!!