Up-front

Sorry guys, but today’s hot topic is bras! Front fastening bras to be precise – so you may want to skip this blog if you’re male! I promise tomorrow’s blog will be gender free! Having Parkinson’s, dexterity in ones fingers is seriously compromised, not to mention a lack of range of motion in shoulders and arms – hence doing up a bra that fastens at the back requires some assistance. I cannot manage this seemingly simple act, and have to enlist the help of my husband or daughter. I need to be quick in the mornings, (which is easier said than done for anyone with PD) to catch one of my family before they disappear off to work, leaving me in my pyjamas for the entire day, which is neither a nice feeling nor a pleasant sight. I was surprised and disappointed when going into some of the well-known major stores in London who have underwear departments with a large selection, including the helpful services of professional fitters; for there were no front fastening bras suitable for a Parkinson’s patient. There were of course maternity bras – but I think I'm pretty well past the point of needing one of these. The only front fastening bras they could offer had from 6 to 8 tiny hooks down the front, which require great dexterity and made the bra into some huge cumbersome apparel. I have yet to find a front fastening bra that is simple and easy for someone with Parkinson’s to manage alone. Maybe manufacturers should think of creating something to fill this need, for I'm sure there must be a market – I can’t be the only one!!!