In 2014 I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. This diagnosis came as a shock as I was only 53, and at that time I had only known much older people who had been given this diagnosis.
The neurologist who first diagnosed me was not a movement disorder specialist. She was very kind and expressed that she would like to treat me, but as it was not her area of speciality, she felt it was best for me if she referred me on.
This diagnosing neurologist started me on a course of Madopar and provided me with a booklet titled "A Positive Approach to Parkinson's Disease." I started to read the booklet with interest, especially as the title gave me hope - a positive approach was just what I needed. On the first page titled "What is Parkinson's Disease?" I read "'Parkinson's Disease is a degenerative neurological disease for which there is no cure."
My heart sank. I read on and as much as I found positive parts to the booklet this sentence stuck in my head for some time.
My new movement disorder neurologist was kind and helpful however there was one time when I asked a question, after a left sided symptom developed (until that time all symptoms had been right sided). I asked, "I imagine if I have a left sided symptom it means the disease is progressing?" The answer; "If it's not progressing it's not the right diagnosis." Although she meant well my heart sank again; my medication dosage had increased and I was experiencing new symptoms.
It wasn't until I attended a 3 day retreat with Dr Sanjay Raghav that I began to feel much more positive about the impact I could have on this disease. Dr Sanjay recognises that medication is part of the treatment of Parkinson's disease. As a neurologist he prescribes medication, however he advocates that with lifestyle changes such as a plant based diet, regular exercise, meditation and yoga and by undertaking these practices regularly, I can have it impact on my own health. In his own words I had the opportunity to "Outpace Parkinson's Disease."
After the retreat I did everything Dr Sanjay suggested and I was even able to reduce my medication by one tablet a day. However, I tended to let some things go - I didn't do yoga every day, didn't maintain a plant-based diet and my exercise regime slackened. I found that I had to go back to the original medication schedule, even though I had continued daily meditation.
I am absolutely delighted that Dr Sanjay is coming to Brisbane to share his thoughts and recommendations with us. Of course we can't expect in one day to receive the same information or experience as in a 3 day retreat, however it will give every attendee an opportunity to learn a little more about what they can do to minimise the symptoms of the disease. Of course there's no guarantee, however the lifestyle changes that Dr Sanjay suggests may be beneficial to anyone, whether they have Parkinson's disease or not.
If you are wondering whether to attend the Symposium, may I suggest that you take a chance, enjoy the day and take from it what you believe may work for you.
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain if it helps you in the future.
Debbie