When Parkinson's Strikes Early: Voices, Choices, Resources and Treatment

By Linda Herman and Barbara Blake-Krebs

Book Overview

Parkinson's disease is often associated with the elderly, but half a million sufferers are in their early fifties or younger. This disorder carries both a physical and social stigma, with neurological degeneration made worse by the refusal of many to seek help. When Parkinson's Strikes Early grew out of an Internet discussion group in 1996, and was further inspired by actor Michael J. Fox's revelation that he has Parkinson's disease. This book covers symptoms, side effects of medication, support networks, and surgery options, and explores the physical, emotional, and social struggles that face young people with Parkinson's. Resources, advocacy ideas, and an index are also included.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0897933400
• ISBN13: 9780897933407
• Release Date: August 2001
• Publisher: Hunter House Publishers
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

Timeless support for all with Parkinson's - especially young onset

This book is for anyone involved with Parkinson's disease, but especially those diagnosed at an early age. I was diagnosed in my early 40's and found this book to be a great source of information and support. People diagnosed at an 'early' age have additional issues to deal with such as young families, employers and a medical treatment plan that must span many years. This book offers quotes and thoughts from many who have endured. Although the book was written a few years ago, the support offered is timeless.

Everyone is Affected Differently

Everyone is affected differently by Parkinson's Disease. Some have it worse than others. For some, progression is slow, for others it is more rapid. Some people do not manifest tremors. Many don't face upper body problems, speech or swallowing problems. There are many myths associated with Parkinson's. It is very individual. Living with Parkinson's is a learning process, and one has to keep a positive attitude. Many people are living well and independently with the disease. It doesn't necessarily have to be a nightmare world. There are adjustments to be made, and it can be an inconvenience, but the challenge will reap rewards.

Best book of its kind I've read

I had the honor of having a couple poems included in this bookand am aware of the huge committment made by the authors to assemble; organize and edit this rarely explored topic. This book looks at a horrible, progressive neurological disease froman unique perspective; that of those afflicted at an early age; (and their caregivers) who face ignorance and lack of understanding as well as the physical and mental problems commonly associated with the disease.This is not some dry, statistical analysis but an indepth lookat a nightmare world few people truly understand. It is filledwith useful knowledge and organizations and is a must-have foranyone suffering from or caring for those with Parkinson's.I can't stress enough how much this book sheds light on a topicrarely discussed in this depth. Doctors, nurses and anyone in themedical field are missing something special if they don't make the time to read this book.Bill Harrington