About me

PROFILE:
I have been writing poetry and stories since I was a child, and a love of reading was instilled in me from an early age. I am passionate about writing, and hope you enjoy the books I have written. Whilst most of you sleep soundly in your beds, like many Parkinson’s patients, insomnia dictates, so during those hours that sleep eludes me, the house is tranquil and quiet, an atmosphere perfect to immerse myself in writing. My life has been a series of strange events, which have without doubt contributed to my creativity. To publish anything is to bear one’s soul to the world. It is to stand naked and let everyone see who you really are. I have poured my heart and soul out on paper and I hope to share this journey, immersing you in a story, capturing your attention and firing the imagination. Through my writing and public speaking I hope to bring greater awareness to the general public about living with chronic disease.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Telling family your diagnosis


Today I am answering a question that a few people have written asking me: “How do I tell my family I've been diagnosed with Parkinson’s?”
Sorry, but there is no simple, easy painless way of telling one’s family and friends that you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, or any disease for that matter. Family relationships are so individual and personal; reactions can be that of complete devastation, others whilst shocked to hear the news immediately show concerned support. In my particular case, we happened to be hosting a family get together at our house, where everyone clearly saw I was shaking; unable to pour the tea, it was a very visual picture, preparing the way for me telling them I had just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s is not something you can hide, nor should it be tucked away like a dark family secret. Being honest and upfront with your family and close friends, although hard to break the news, is ultimately the only way to go. Sadly there will always be those who cannot handle this new information and might curiously disappear from your life, but the people who really count, will rally around and the more informed they are about your condition, makes it easier for them to understand what you are going through.

1 comment:

  1. Though devastated they may be, I do believe that almost everyone will take their cue from you, how you handle the situation. The caring ones will be concerned for you, not themselves. If they notice that you are in turmoil, scared, ill-informed, etc., that is how they will react in return. You must be strong of mind and well knowledgable about your condition before announcing anything, so that you can help them understand what is happening to you and what to expect, also how they can help you. You need to be able to arrest their fears, too, and let them know they are strong and you are looking to them for their support in your time of need.
    Kate

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