Susannah Stankiewicz Fitzsimons

Living with Parkinson’s: A personal interview with my Dad

Parkinson's is the second most common neurological disease in Australia and effects approximately 10 million people worldwide. This includes one person very close to me. My Dad. In an effort to shed light on his personal experience, I’ve asked my Dad, Michael, 75, to provide his own insights and give a firsthand look into navigating his diagnosis and living with Parkinson’s.

When were you first diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and what were the initial symptoms you experienced? How long had you noticed them?

My initial symptoms were a very mild motion tremor in my hands, when reaching for things. Eg: a glass. Concerned, I queried my GP. But because several conditions could cause this it became a wait and see. A year later as the tremor became more persistent and as the GP thought PD was a possibility, she sent me for an MRI. Although the results were not conclusive, I was referred to a Neurologist. He confirmed the diagnosis in January 2021.

Are there any misconceptions about having Parkinson’s that you’d like to share?

As you probably are aware PD is an incurable degenerative disease of the brain. Symptoms can vary greatly between sufferers. It is a slow process, and can take many years to become evident, and in hindsight I should have been more aware. Unfortunately, these symptoms mimic growing old, slow to move, loss of strength, brain fog, lapses in memory. Fortunately, my main symptom at the moment is the tremor, mainly on my left side, particularly my left hand. The more stressed I am the stronger the tremor. However, this doesn’t mean that PD hasn’t had its effect.

How has Parkinson’s impacted your daily life and routine?

Everything is slower! Walking, dressing, washing and many daily tasks all take longer. I have to be careful with my balance because reaction time is slower. I have to remember to take my medications at the right time.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in managing your condition?

My biggest challenge is the loss of very fine manual dexterity. (for example. Rigging a fishing line with hooks, swivels and sinkers and the knots that are required with fingers that struggle to do so.) It can be very frustrating not being able to do what was previously an easy task, especially if a young sufferer of PD.

Are there any specific therapies or medications that have been particularly helpful for you?

In my case I found that the Red/Infrared therapy helped me with brain fog, and slowed (not stopped) the progression of PD. An exercise program has helped with balance and stamina.

What advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s? Or thinking about pursuing a diagnosis?

My advice to sufferers is to keep a positive attitude (not always easy) The diagnosis is beyond your control. But that doesn’t mean give up; be aware of the various therapies available. Not all will be beneficial as every case of PD is different. Find what helps you and stick to it.

The first step is consulting with your GP if you suspect something is wrong. They can advise you as to what the comes next. Perhaps a referral to a specialist. Don’t hesitate to query your GP…. because an early diagnosis means earlier medication, and a better quality of life.