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.

Thursday, April 11, 2013

PARKINSON'S DAY 2013


I don't think Dr. James Parkinson, who was born on April 11th 1755, in his wildest dreams, had any idea his birthday would be remembered by millions in the world. Each year the 11th April is marked around the globe as 'Parkinson's Day'. An estimated 7 to 10 million people suffer from Parkinson's disease, and there are likely many who are not yet diagnosed, as the symptoms vary from patient to patient and diagnosis is not a simple clear cut blood test as with other diseases. Statistics show that men are one and a half times more likely to have Parkinson's than women. To give you an idea how common this disease is: approximately 1 million Americans live with Parkinson's disease, which is more than the combined number of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gehrig's disease. The number of Young on-set Parkinson's patients (those diagnosed under the age of 50) is frighteningly on the increase. Many Parkinson's organisations use the tulip as their symbol, and one particular species named in Dr. Parkinson's honour is called the 'Tulipa Doctor James Parkinson'. The tulip is the national symbol for Parkinson's disease, and many support groups have pins made with their own take on this cheerful flower. Show your support by passing on my blog to as many people as you can. Help me get the word out today and be part of bringing greater awareness around the world. 
(Photo by Jacques Amand)

Posted by Parkinson's, shaken, not stirred at 7:00 AM

1 comment:

  1. J. Conrad GuestApril 11, 2013 at 2:48 PM

    Thanks, Elaine, for helping to spread the word about Parkinson's, one of the most underfunded diseases where search for a cure is concerned.

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