Diagnosed at 44
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at age 44 although I had been seeing Drs. and diagnosed with several other things for a year. I had a wife and 3 small children so the news was shocking. I was employed by the United States Forest Service as a Forester so much of my work was outdoors walking, hiking and generally, hard work. I wrestled at Penn State University so much of my life and training was extreme quick movements and I had to be very strong. This was truly going to be a new kind of challenge. My God, my wife and my 3 children have remained my support system and strength for the past 18 years and I do not know what I would do without them. I have had 18 surgeries for a variety of reasons including Deep Brain Stimulation. I still remain somewhat active fishing, hunting, rock hunting, gardening and hiking when I can. My wheelchair is needed more and more but those of you who suffer from this illness know how the “on” “off” effect can be so dramatic it is hard to explain to people. Sometimes I can walk up a hill and sometimes I cannot walk across the flat floor. I pray for healing not just for myself but for all those who suffer and hope for a cure. Until that day comes, I must live everyday as it is a gift and enjoy what I can.