They’re called “on” and “off” times, those periods during the day when my husband’s medications are working for him and then when they wear off between doses. He didn’t notice them as much when he was first diagnosed, but they are becoming more defined with each passing year. When he is “off”, his tremors are much more pronounced and he moves more slowly. He tires easily. He takes his meds and usually within about 20 minutes we see things start to improve and he is ready to go again.

We have learned to plan activities and appointments within those windows of time when he is at his most functional. It is normally about 30 minutes after taking a dose of the carbidopa levodopa and lasts for 2 to 2 ½ hours. These times are the times during his day that allow him to get things done, however the medications also take a toll. They bring their own form of stiffness and uncontrolled movements known as dyskinesia that interfere with his ability to totally relax and be himself.

My husband has a wonderful sense of humor and a beautiful smile, it was one of the first things I noticed when I met him. Nowadays, thanks to PD, his smile is often hidden or comes out as more of a grimace. But, if I can catch him late at night, when his meds and symptoms are at their lowest point, I can make him laugh and see that smile I fell in love with. It catches me unawares at times and can bring me to tears, but it also reminds me to look for those opportunities and hold fast to the things that PD can’t take from us like beautiful smiles and our enduring love.