Benefits of Parkinsons Support Group

Good morning Parkinson's friends and family I see one of the benefits of convening a Parkinson's Support Group is that I get to meet so many wonderful, unique people I would never have had the opportunity to meet otherwise. I delight in greeting them along with their partners or alone as they arrive and begin to mingle before our meeting commences. I am especially mindful of, and always touched by the love, respect and care that partners of people living with Parkinson's demonstrate , in all their thoughtful actions and kindness of words. 

It has not, over the years, been uncommon for the person living with Parkinson's to confide in me that they would be lost without this special person in their lives. As Carer's Week approaches, I believe it is so vital to take time to look at the carer role. Many of those living with Parkinson's , through daily interactions , remain acutely aware of the role that person plays in their lives. Carers are often partners. Often they did not expect to step into this role. Sometimes, I imagine, thoughts of fleeing may momentarily cross their minds, but most often, they push these thoughts aside and, without complaint, continue to face the many demands placed on them, often with good humour. 

It is no exaggeration to say that these people, for many of us, give a deep sense of stability, and sometimes an unfathomable strength. I recently read this quote used as a journal title; "Caregiving is a work of heart". Often driven by love, caregivers ask little in return . In many cases they give a great deal. They sacrifice all to devote their days around giving much needed care and they would not have it any other way. But at times, that person who has given so much needs someone to be there for them. Dear friends, many of us are blessed. 

With a greater prevalence of males living with Parkinson's, the carer role more often falls to the natural nurturer, the female. For males who find themselves in this role, the nurturing does not come so readily. I have met some fantastic male carers but my husband would never accept that he is a caregiver. As time passes, I can see him cautiously and gently, as a butterfly unfurls from a golden chrysalis, embracing some of these attributes and metamorphosing into this role, but it is not easy. Not often, but at times (I hate to admit), I can feel resentment that I am the one coping with these uncomfortable symptoms. 

I can also slip into a grumpy, ungracious mood and then reject any offers of assistance . Shameful behaviour, but hey, I am human. I must remember as Emory Austin once said, "Some days, there won't be a song in our heart. Sing anyway!" I must also remind myself that generosity of spirit also means a gracious acceptance of the small acts of kindness that are offered and be more grateful at such times! It is often easier to give than to take. So let those of us who are fortunate enough to have a carer/partner In their lives, take a moment to reflect on them. 

Let us take a moment to thank them. Let us take a moment to plan a way we can demonstrate how much they mean. Let us take a moment to let them know we value their works of heart. Carers, you epitomise goodness. "A generous heart, a kind speech and compassion are the things that renew humanity" . Buddha. "Doctors diagnose, Nurses heal and caregivers make sense of it all" Brett H Lewis. Ha ha. So true! We salute you, all you who care.