It has been a few months since I have submitted information regarding our newly organized Parkinson’s Support Group. We receive many questions regarding how the group is going, etc., so I would like to share some information with you, the community.

It is difficult for me to put into words how well received this group has been. We average just over 30 people, but there are about 50 people who attend regularly. These Parkinson’s victims and caregivers were waiting for the opportunity to share with those who truly understand the challenges, the struggles and all that Parkinson’s disease entails. The group shares openly their individual situations such as where they receive their medical care, what medications they use, which work and which do not work for them, when diagnosed, symptoms and more. We all learn from one another. It is an open, caring group of people.

Each month we have coffee and treats, an educational program and plenty of time to visit. We have had programs informing us as to the Bone Builders program; Senior Resources and what is available through them; a program on nutrition and diet for PD; exercise and how important it is for PD victims to “Keep Moving.” We have had representatives from the Struthers Clinics in Minneapolis/St. Paul, we have had a program on Activities of Daily Living such as “How do I get out of a car?” “Is there a trick for getting our of a deep couch?” “How can I help my husband (wife) to get up after a fall?”

This month our program will be representatives from Camp Courage informing us as to programs they have specifically for Parkinson’s victims. We also try to include humor.

Davis Phinney, the former Olympics and the Tour de France bicycle medallist, has developed Parkinson’s and started a clinic in Colorado. His motto is, “I can’t control that I have Parkinson’s but I can control how I live with Parkinson’s.” This is what we hope our group accomplishes. To help one another celebrate the little victories; maybe that is a smile, a shared laugh, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, being together even if it is with a struggle.

We are learning so much about this disease. I would like to share much more. In the past I believe there was a stigma attached to what has been called “shaking palsy” because of the tremors. There are many symptoms, which are visible, and many more, which are invisible. Of course, it is not easy to live with these symptoms. What we do know is, it helps to share your struggles with those who understand what you are experiencing.

I want to encourage anyone who knows someone who may even suspect that they have Parkinson’s, come join our group. You will come to understand that you are not alone. Every year 50,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Let us help you learn how to live with this frustrating disease. You will be welcomed.

We also want to acknowledge the Albert Lea Senior Center, which sponsors us. Paula Juveland, the director, and the many volunteers make us welcome and provide all we need.

We meet in the Senior Center the fourth Tuesday of each month. This month it will be Sept. 27 at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call me at 507-373-1808 or Anne Troska at 507-874-3367.

Maureen Ruble

Albert Lea