We were watching an interview with Michael J. Fox recently that reminded us that my husband’s diagnosis of PD is not a death warrant. It is chronic and progressive, but not a terminal illness. Unfortunately, his response to the symptoms of Parkinson’s can lead to behaviors that make it more difficult to fight off other illnesses. That is why it is so important that he do everything possible to slow the progression of his illness in case something else does strike.

What Parkinson’s can do is interfere with the part of my husband’s brain that regulates his bodily functions, including his ability to breathe. If he catches a respiratory ailment like a cold or the flu, it becomes even more difficult for him to take a deep breath and can lead to pneumonia. Add to that the fact that we are being advised not to take many of the over the counter medications designed to relieve the symptoms of cold and flu and it becomes a dangerous time for anyone with PD. Needless to say, we get our annual flu shots.

I write about my husband regularly, but my first connection with Parkinson’s Disease was my father who was diagnosed in his mid-60’s, about 30 years ago. While my father was advised to exercise, there were no programs available in their small rural community. When he had pain, he sat down and rested. When it became difficult for him to walk, he got a wheelchair. He was given pain meds, sleep aids and anti-depressants. Within a few short years he was hospitalized where he contracted pneumonia and died with “complications of Parkinson’s Disease”.

Things have changed greatly since those days. When my husband was diagnosed, I remembered Dad’s journey and wondered what was ahead for us. What I have learned is that by implementing a positive daily plan it is possible to have some control over what happens. That means we exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet. Along with the support of a good medical team and a solid network of friends and family, we will continue this fight to whatever end it brings. PD will be with us but it won’t lead the way as we move forward in our journey.