It has been a difficult couple of years as we navigate a pandemic and Parkinson’s Disease. First, we were in lockdown with little or no outside contact, then I learned new computer skills as we all started “zoom”ing. The on-line connections helped me stay active in our PD community, but I really missed the one-on-one meetings. Finally, we are getting back to the point where we can meet in person again and I am so excited to see our friends. The support groups are a lifeline for me, especially in this uncertain Parkinson’s world.

My outside commitments include volunteering at a local museum a couple of hours every week. It is an opportunity for me to leave my role as CarePartner behind and take on other responsibilities. The people at the museum don’t know my husband and are not actively involved in our story so they relate to me differently. I am an individual there, a piece that can get lost when you are caring for someone with a chronic illness.

I treasure the times I get to connect with my husband outside of our home that have nothing to do with his diagnosis. We recently visited the Oregon coast and are planning a fall trip to Hawaii. Mr. Parkinson’s disease comes along, but the change in environment allows us both to escape and see a different side of our relationship. Outside activities are essential reminders that we are bigger than this illness and that life can be about so much more for both of us.