A Journey Through Parkinson's, Loss, and Reconciliation

A Story of Resilience and Healing

Parkinson's Diagnosis

When the doctor uttered the words "You have Parkinson's disease," my world felt like it was collapsing. It was a diagnosis that came with a heavy weight, one that I would carry for the rest of my life. The most harrowing part was the uncertainty of what the future held.

Amidst grappling with my diagnosis, I faced two additional monumental life changes.

Shocking News

Lee was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in 2021 and confronted his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery with courage and dignity. He is three years clean, with two more to be considered cured. Watching him endure chemo and radiation was heartbreaking, yet he persevered. He continues to face his journey head-on every day. Together, we have experienced life altering situations. It has only made us a more resilient couple.

My Parent's Legacy

Marcia and Joe both passed away in 2021 - six months apart. Their absence left a void that seemed impossible to fill. The grief was overwhelming, compounded by the physical and emotional challenges of Parkinson's and Lee's diagnosis, which came in between my parent's death. The sense of loneliness and fear was profound, and I found myself spiraling into a deep sadness.

Path to Reconciliation

The last few years have been a blur of fear of the unknown for both Lee and me. Yes, many days have been a struggle, not just with the symptoms of Parkinson's and Lee's cancer diagnosis, but with the pervasive sense of loss and longing for my parents.

While the grief can still overwhelm me, a sliver of light began to appear. I recognized that I needed to find a way to reconcile with everything that life threw my way. It has not been an easy journey, but it was a necessary one. I have recently sought therapy, a safe space to process my emotions and begin to heal.

The Move

Slowly, I started to reclaim parts of my life. Lee and I finally decided where to retire and found a new life in Charleston, SC. So far, I found my Pickleball people, began the search for a Dressage trainer, and reconnected with old friends. Lee and I try every day to do something that usually involves the beach and our dogs running free - a dream come true.

Conclusion

I recognize that Lee's diagnosis, subsequent recovery, and the loss of my parents have shaped me into who I am now. Both have taught me to try every day to embrace life rather than be consumed by my own fear of the future.

My journey through diagnosis, grief, and reconciliation has taught me the resilience of the human spirit. It has shown me that even in the face of profound sadness, there is always a path to healing and hope.

One day at a time…..