I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) three years ago, when I was 75 years old. Like most folks with PD, I lost a lot of physical mobility but fortunately retained most of my marbles. While dealing with my diminishments (a phrase I learned from your December 2008 issue), I kept thinking about the dormant power of the total Parkinson's community, which includes patients, families, and concerned friends. I envisioned some sort of nationwide PD project that focused on something other than the disease itself. Three months ago, I decided that my program would be a fundraising initiative supporting a deserving international non-profit organization.
I called on two of my sons to create a Web site called Movers and Shakers, (movers-and-shakers.org ), which explains our philosophy. I was amazed at the very warm reception and the substantial number of donations.
I am now in the process of building a prospect list of over 300 Parkinson's support groups across the country. I am referring to my activity as the PD support group with a twist.
Pat Howe
South Kent, CT