Como ser una Mujer que no se Rinde Frente a la Enfermedad del Parkinson: Por Maria De Leon

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“He peleado la buena batalla, he llegado a la meta- he mantenido la fe.” 2 Timoteo 4:7

 

Siento como que he estado alejados de ustedes mis estimadas amigas por largo tiempo. Aún más por los estándares de hoy en día impuesta por la sociedad y las redes sociales que nos lleva a querer todo de inmediato sin tardanza ni retraso. Así es que les admito que tal vez estado fuera y lejos de ustedes más tiempo de lo que creía.

Pero a veces para continuar sirviendo y siendo de beneficio para otros necesitamos tiempo para restablecer nuestras almas agotadas.

Precisamente esto es lo que he estado haciendo las últimas semanas del mes. Para poder ser mejor persona, escritora, mentor, y orador. Además tenía que tomar tiempo para celebrar un año más de vida que Dios me concedió, pues hace una década me dijeron que solo me quedaban 6 meses. Aunque ya no es tanto celebrar el número exacto de anos sino que estamos vivos y podemos seguir luchando y disfrutando de las riquezas del Todopoderoso.

Este año ha sido increíble permitiéndome viajar a varias comunidades donde habitan personas con párkinson para alentarlos y motivarlos a seguir luchando. Durante las cuales he tenido el placer y orgullo de conocer mujeres valientes y fuertes de espíritu que viven y luchan del diario con esta enfermedad.

Todas ustedes son mi inspiración – lo que me motiva a seguir a delante- so lo tengo que recordar a mujeres como mi amiga Nan Little que a pesar de tener párkinson pudo escalar la montaña del Kilimanjaro hasta la cima.

Lo que he aprendido a través de mi jornada en esta vida especialmente en los últimos años desde que me diagnosticaron a mí la enfermedad, es que las mujeres fuertes nunca se rinden frente al fracaso o la tormenta, ni se olvidan de sí mismas y mucho menos de los demás.

Mi espíritu guerrero viene por medio de mi fe la cual esta contantemente siendo probada y les juro que no es perfecta y muchas veces fracaso y hay días que es necesario empezar de vuelta varias veces para poder seguir costa arriba.

He aprendido 5 lecciones importantes que toda mujer que no se da por vencida jamás tiene que aprender. Esto lo aprendí de un estudio bíblico sobre el libro de Ruth.

Ruth era una mujer que había perdido todo su marido, su familia, su hogar, hasta su fe (por un breve tiempo), pero nunca perdió la esperanza. ¿Cuantas de nosotras nos hemos encontrado en la misma situación? Estoy segura que alguna de ustedes como yo se sintieron solas, abandonadas y quebrantadas.

¿Qué es lo que entonces debemos de hacer para continuar la batalla y perseverar?

Especialmente cuando las fuerzas se nos agotan y quisiéramos quedarnos para siempre metidos bajo las sabanas y no enfrentar al mundo nunca más o simplemente no SENTIMOS las ganas de luchar un minuto más.

  1. Tenemos que aceptar nuestra presente circunstancias. Nadie disfruta una vida difícil, lección dura o tener párkinson. Pero a veces es preciso tener estas lecciones o dificultades para reforzar nuestro carácter y sacar lo malo. Yo por mi parte aunque no le deseo a nadie esta enfermedad ha sido una bendición pues me ayudado a ser mejor, tener más gratitud y vivir con mayor dicha que anteriormente.
  2. Necesitamos aprender disciplina y continuar aunque no tengamos o sintamos ganas de hacerlo. Hoy en día damos demasiada importancia a los sentimientos- como nos sentimos, que sentimos… pero a veces los sentimientos pueden ser engañosos y nos pueden paralizar. Tenemos que ser disciplinadas en nuestras vidas. Por ejemplo cuando estudiaba medicina aunque no me gustara el horario, el clima, las clases tenía que estar allí. A veces tenía que atravesar todo el centro de filadelfia a las 3 de la mañana para poder llegar a tiempo y pasar por las montañas altas de hielo congeladas en las esquinas bloqueando la pasada.
  3. Debemos tener generosidad emocional hacia los demás. Es fácil dar lo que nos sobra o tenemos de más, al igual que hacer donaciones y escribir un cheque. Pero es mucho más difícil dar algo que no tenemos y aún más cuando lo que nos piden es algo que nosotros también necesitamos. Me recuerdo un día como los que a veces tenemos en lo cual todo es trabajo y dificultad, donde no podemos ni vestirnos ni toleramos las medicinas y todo se nos cae de las manos dándonos más trabajo. Pues así había empezado y no podía salir de casa por lo mal que me sentía pero estaba en un grupo de estudio bíblico de mujeres y volví a llegar tarde. Ya iba molesta y frustrada conmigo misma y con la enfermedad pero al entrar al fin me relaje un poco pero no necesitaba un sermón amonestándome acerca de mi tardanza. Pero una dama ya de edad de repente me dio la sorpresa al reprender me con agresividad por llegar tarde y me recordó que si ella con su edad podía llagar yo también debiese de hacer lo mismo. Claro, esto no me callo nada bien y en ese instante quería descargarle toda mis frustraciones. Pero calle. Le pregunte en seguida si se sentía bien pues era fura de carácter que estuviera tan molesta. Al instante soltó el llanto pues había sido diagnosticada con cáncer. En ese momento todo mi enojo se derritió y me dedique a consolarla a pesar de que solo quería ir me a la casa y seguir vomitando. Lo interesante es que al transcurrir la mañana entre más le dedicaba tiempo a ella mis malestares y achaques se volvieron insignificantes. Al fin de todo yo me sentí mucho mejor el resto del día. La mejor manera de suplir nuestras necesidades emocionales es dando a otros lo que nos hace falta. Si amor. ¡Da amor!
  4. Estar siempre con las manos abiertas. Cuando uno está accesible hacia otros, las personas se acercan con más facilidad y frecuencia para ayudar y apoyar. No podemos aconsejar a otros si no se nos pueden arrimar o si siempre estamos molestos y amargados. Recuerda que la vida siempre se va a empeorar/complicar antes de mejorar
  5. Finalmente, sigamos adelante en Fe aun cuando es imposible ver la luz al final del túnel. Muchas personas se han dado por vencidas ya para cruzar la meta. No sé por qué pero nosotras las mujeres tenemos esa tendencia a darnos por vencidas más fáciles y antes de tiempo tal vez porque como yo son impacientes cuando lo que esperamos no se nos da de inmediato. Yo tengo casi treinta años esperando un sueño y seguiré esperando hasta que sea realidad. La vida es como escalar esas montañas peligrosas y resbalosas pero para poder vencer y llegar a la cima se necesita escalar con cuidado un pie adelante del otro sin mirar atrás. No quiero que nos volvamos como la mujer que intento cruzar el canal Ingles y duro días y atravesó por muchas dificultades y a la hora de lograr el propósito fallo por que la neblina oscureció su visión estando la meta a solo unos cuantos pies más.

 

copyright-2016

all rights reserved – Maria De Leon MD

How to Become A Parkinson’s Woman Who Does NOT Quit!: By Maria De Leon

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I have  fought the good fight, I have finished the race- I have kept the FAITH!”

~2 Timothy 4:7

I feel like I have been gone from you a long time and perhaps by the standards of today where everything is done in a hurry and we want things yesterday…I have.

But, sometimes in order to continue serving and working we must take time to replenish our soul. So, this is precisely what I have being doing the last month and 1/2 to be a better motivational speaker and writer but above all a much better person. Of course, I took time to celebrate another wonderful year of life. I am particularly grateful to say I am getting to that age where age is just a state of mind and not an actual number since 10 years ago I was told I might not be around longer than 6 months!

All the traveling I have done over the last 7 months doing women & PD  work along with motivational speaking to various Parkinson’s groups has been a wonderful experience allowing me to meet all sorts of incredible women  and people across the country who are living with and caring for loved ones with PD.

You women are my source of inspiration- women like my friend Nan Little who despite having PD was able to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro.

What I have learned in my own journey of life and with PD in the last decade is that strong women NEVER quit on themselves or others no matter how challenging the task is or how though the going gets.

My own personal strength comes from my faith in God and believe you me when I tell you this is by no means perfect. I falter a lot and have to start over sometimes multiple times a day ….

I have learned 5 secrets which strong women who never quit employ- this from a Bible study on Ruth. Ruth was a woman who lost everything…her family, her husband, her friends and her own faith for a while but never let go of HOPE. I am sure many of you like me have found themselves in this situation.

What then must we do to Persevere?

When all we want to do is QUIT and hide under the covers or we simply just don’t FEEL like we can go on a second longer? 

#1 We must ACCEPT our present circumstances even if we do not like them. No one enjoys a hard lesson, having a hard life, or having PD. But, having Parkinson’s may be the way to a more refined life (happier, better you). I know that although I don’t wish I had PD I have become a kinder, nicer, more caring, more patient person than I was before.

#2 We must FOLLOW THROUGH despite our feelings. These days we give to much emphasis to how we feel and what we feel; but sometimes feelings can be misleading and can paralyze us. We must have enough discipline and conviction to keep moving forward whether we like it or not. This is what got me through all those years of struggling as a student with little money and little to eat because I had a goal to become a doctor! Even if I did not like the hours, walking across a deserted Parkway lined with homeless people at 3 am, in the middle of winter storm and had to walk across miles of plowed snow blocking side walks freezing my knee caps and face off –  I HAD to go! The same with PD. Sometimes we use it as an excuse to forgo commitments and become undisciplined in our life. Yet if we learn from a strong woman like Ruth despite her anger, despair, brokenness, and sadness she still went out to pick up the left overs in the field to eat.

I have discovered in my own life that when you are willing to follow through no matter what things just happen- you suddenly find yourself in the right place at the right time meeting the right people. That’s how I chose my undergraduate which led me to becoming a Parkinson’s specialist and found PDF who also led me to you fine women.

#3 We must Keep our hands OPEN. When you are accessible, people can come to you freely and can count on you. You can’t very well be a mentor to others or support others if you are not approachable and are mean, bitter and off-putting. Life will always be messy before it gets better.

#4 We must have emotional generosity It is easy to donate money or write a check or give of your time when everything is well and you have time to spare. But, what about giving what you don’t have? I once was going to a bible study of course I was running late as usual because my pills were not working, I was throwing up, I was having a hard time dressing and so on…you all have been there at one point or another. when I finally made it I was relieved to be there although was already feeling bad for not being able to come on time so I certainly did not need a sermon from one of the elder ladies who suddenly snapped at me for being tardy and pointed out to be that if she being an older woman could make it on time – I certainly could! of course, I’m don’t have to tell you that this did not suit especially since I was already feeling physically ill. although, at that moment I was feeling less than loving to say the least I held my tongue and asked her instead if everything was okay with her because she was not being herself? she broke in tears..  She had just being diagnosed with cancer! Needless to say, all my anger melted away instantaneously and even though I was feeling lousy I found somehow courage to stay with her and console her until she found relief. Interestingly, the more I gave of myself the more I found to give and ended up feeling better the rest of the day. The best way to have your needs met is to give others what you need!

#5 Finally, keep moving forward in faith even if you don’t see the end of the rainbow.. so many people have given up just before the crossed the finish line and this is a worst feeling to have. For some reason we women are the worst at this, we are impatient when we don’t see the desired results immediately but like climbing a steep mountain with winding treacherous paths, the best way to keep moving forward is one step at a time in the right direction and keep waiting!  I don’t want us to become like that famous woman who set out to row across the English channel and went on and on through all kinds of perils and overcome with fatigue, self-doubt and exhaustion gave up a few feet away because the fog had clouded her vision.

Cry if you must- but NEVER give up!

Sources:

5 habits of women who don’t give up by Niki Koziarkz

copyright-2016

all rights reserved – Maria De Leon MD

A Decade of Methamorphosis: by Maria De Leon

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It has been nearly ten years since my life changed drastically – which reminds me of the saying” be careful what you wish for.” It was about the last time that I  remember feeling pure exuberant joy- as if your heart were going to leap out of your chest and take flight.

I said that I wished I could get a new start in life and reinvent myself in my forties..well my wish came true…and I Never been happier. But the journey has not been without struggles, without tears, frustration, depression, and utter rage at other times the battle seemed all uphill. Along the way, I also suffered many personal losses that nearly toppled me over but thank goodness for the small victories and the BIG overwhelming grace of my Heavenly father who has seen fit to see me through till today.

Yesterday, for the first time again I felt a spark of joy building within me and a faint leap of my heart took place within my chest; and all is right with the world. Don’t get me wrong, there is till much to overcome and much to learn about this illness and myself. Yet, I remain hopeful that together we will find more and more therapies, treatments to allow our loved ones suffering from this cruel disease to feel hope and joy once more.

I simply love the blue morpho butterfly- maybe because its beginnings are ordinary like all other butterflies yet it grows to be one of the largest most beautiful butterflies in the world captivating millions of people worldwide with its iridescent beauty. This always fascinated me especially now as I live with a chronic illness which tends to slow me down. I often think about the  30 million insects that exist  around the world composed by 600,000 of species of  species or so yet few insects can draw as much attention and affection in others towards this animal for its uniqueness. having Parkinson’s makes me a bit slow and clumsy just like this butterfly whose flight is one marked by slowness and punctuations due to the incredible span of its wings which is too heavy for its body yet its ability in flight is one which few other predators can master making the blue butterfly difficult to catch. the top wings are not blue colored rather have scales which allow light to reflect off this mirror like surface making it seem blue while its under side which is brown makes the butterflies appear as if the disappear through space as the fly giving them a mystical quality.

They excel gracefully above their limitations just as many Parkinson’s individuals do fooling people in thinking we are slow and dull meanwhile when our inner beauty is expose it is unlike any other. We, too, defy the laws of nature doing and performing above and beyond what our natural capabilities would have us do. Their life is short lived as some of our is due to our illness but that does not diminish in any way the joy others feel to be around us and us with them. Nor is our joy diminished as we capture a glimpse of the natural beauty of this fabulous creature. The world is much more colorful due to their existence just as the world is much better for our transformations after living with PD. This is  because many  like myself have been metamorphed into something much more beautiful than we were before our disease when we were self-righteous, inpatient, living for the moment, without faith, much joy, peace nor self- control, focused on the wrong priorities and truly miserable and unhappy within.

copyright-2016

all rights reserved – Maria De Leon MD

Unraveling Complexity of Being a Chronically ill patient: by Maria De Leon

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A decade ago, I would have sworn I was the healthiest person; sure I had minor inconveniences like thyroid cancer at young age and migraines since childhood. But my life on the whole was great! Not that is not great now just different…I took one medication for my thyroid and every so often I needed a migraine abortive medication. I rarely set foot on the premises of a pharmacy. I would take my thyroid mediation like clock work without much fuzz. I NEVER heard from insurance, pharmacist, or other doctors regarding myself. of course, I spent countless hours dealing with all of these regarding my patients. each year, the number of hours I spent on phone and written letters on behalf of my patients steadily increased by now most doctors with a busy practice like mine spend a great deal more time trying to get around the bureaucracy and paper work involved just to get patients what they need to get better. the most frustrating thing besides arguing with insurances about approval of much needed medications was arguing with them about approving benefits to cover their care especially in terminal cases. Too often the help came too late.

Now, I am a walking, breathing, veritable pharmacy – my purse has grown over the years just to accommodate the ever growing number of medications I require to function; which invariably keeps expanding. Each time I think I have stabilized, there pops something new to throw a wrench in the system. Just the other day, I spent the morning at yet another unforeseen doctor’s visit due to acute labyrinthitis from an ear infection and guess what? More meds were thrown in the mix. Now, I have been assigned both a nurse and a pharmacy specialist to my case.

First, where were these people when I needed them to help out with my patients care? Secondly, in theory having a past medical illness or chronic disease  is not supposed to matter in the coverage of an individual by any insurance. Yet, in reality all of us who live with a chronic disease is being analyzed by some committee somewhere as to how much “resources” we are using. These resources which include medical, laboratory, ancillary, and pharmaceutical services are precious commodities which yearly are contracted to the lowest bidder. While, the premiums and out of pocket expenses continue to go higher as the coverage for those commodities continue to go lower for those of us who happen to have the misfortune of having a serious medical problem. Everyone who lives with PD and other chronic illness can testify to this fact.

After laughing out loud in disbelief for having NOT one BUT two specialized people dedicated to help with my care, I began to shake my head regarding the absurdity of our medical system. After speaking with these well meaning individuals who did not realized, I was a doctor, neither one had any answers to my REAL problems or concerns. No! I DON’T NEED SPECIAL EQUIPMENT, TRANSPORTATION, OR HOME SERVICES- ALL I NEED IS APPROVAL OF MY EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE MEDICATIONS AND TESTS so I don’t require ANY of the above and won’t end-up in the hospital as many of my patients have in the past due to poor coverage of medications and frequent changes dictated NOT by real medicine rather by pure economics!

So, after an hour each, they both politely stated they could NOT help with my problems. They could not convince the people they work for that these medicines are keeping me functioning and that perhaps might even help me return to gainful employment and at minimum are keeping me out of the hospital and getting worse medical problems if they were only able to approve the PET scan my physician ordered to make sure my cancer has not returned. But, to no avail. The answer was ALWAYS NO! But, will call you again next month at the same time. No wonder I like that new song of Meghan Trainor ” No.” “My number is no!, my name is no!, my {everything} is NO!” when I talk to the insurance companies…so do we need to let it go?

I hope we DON’T let it go otherwise we as a society will continue to hurt and suffer the consequences and end-up in a state not very dissimilar to the one in Mexico and other countries where socialized medicine has taken root.

I still cringe at the terrible experience my family underwent while my grandfather was hospitalized for a GI bleed in my hometown in Mexico. First, after having to transfer him to a “private” hospital because there were no medicines or even much staff at the government owned facility-the specialist he needed, not unlike what is already happening here in many smaller communities, was 5 hours away in another state and could not come for several days. So, he continued to bleed for which he required 14 pints of blood which by the way the family had to procure on their own because the government has no money to maintain a blood bank. He ended with 2 mayor strokes subsequently- which of course I witnessed personally and was helpless to do anything about since there was no treatment available for what he needed.

I am afraid that as the population continues to age and incidence of dementia, Parkinson’s, strokes and other chronic debilitating diseases begin to rise the quality of life for each individual will steadily decline in this country despite all the major medical and technological advances this country has unless we step up and demand change. please contact PAN/MJfox  @ http://www.parkinsonsaction.org  and after June 1st @ http://www.michaeljfox.org/policy

-let them know its not ok to have a monthly struggle just to get the medicines your doctor prescribed or have to choose between basic necessities and affording expensive medications which now include many popular generic brands which in some cases cost the same or more than the brand! and remember to just say No!

copyright-2016

all rights reserved – Maria De Leon MD

 

 

Women & PD: by Maria De Leon

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My thoughts regarding my life with Parkinson’s as an MDS  mirrors those of a great warrior when she quipped  “it feels as if this life is not my life. It is a second life. People have prayed to God to spare my life and I was spared for a reason. To help others”…(with the same struggles)- MalalaIMG_1996

 

It has been a couple of weeks since I wrote down my reflections and introspection; but for a change rather than musing out loud I have been amusing myself meeting so many wonderful, valiant women with PD around the country. These women from Hawaii to Arizona have inspired me to continue advocating for women all around the world. They are evidence that the well rooted common public opinion regarding women as the “weak” sex should be reconsidered. Especially, when it comes to the notion of how women living with Parkinson’s should act within the realm of this progressive degenerative illness. Yes, it is true that still we have a great deal of work to do when at least a third of the world still treats women as property and as second class citizens; yet among each culture and ethnic background we find examples of women who are courageous beyond measure who are willing to stand up not only for themselves but for others. Women like Malala who despite her young age, she was willing to put herself in harms ways in order to defy conventional wisdom and the abhorrent treatment of women in her country earning her the Nobel Peace even at such a young age. Her story reminds us that a strong voice in the midst of adversity and imperceptible roar cannot be silenced.IMG_2001

Although, we are not in this country by any means putting ourselves necessarily in the path of death, as some women in other parts of the world are, trying to alter common place treatment of women within the medical confines – still takes a certain amount of bravery. To go against the firmly held beliefs of the masses requires discipline, fortitude, and incredible conviction …

As we are on the heels of Parkinson’s awareness month- I want to  encourage all women who live with PD on a daily basis to remember that their story is also my own. Thus, I am not unique in any fashion or form all I do is encourage other women to become empowered with knowledge and become self advocates of their own destiny and health care. There is great power in togetherness and standing unified in a cause for the betterment of all women and their health issues with PD. No longer do you as a woman with PD should face challenges alone unique to your gender since half of the population is of female gender.

Things to remember about PD in women –IMG_1982

  • Women tend to be diagnosed at least two years later
  • Hormones play a role – since early hysterectomy increases the risk of PD but also women who are menstruating have worse symptoms of PD during their menses and their period alternatively worsens due to having Parkinson’s
  • Women experience more dyskenisias than men; this could be due to increase sensitivity to side effects as most women are more sensitive to similar doses given to men but also because of the weight difference (more body fat in women- causing medications to linger longer in body)  and metabolism difference.
  • Women have more depression and men have more behavioral problems
  • Women although have less dementia then men they have worst quality of life overall. Perhaps, because they also have increased risk of strokes.

However, there is an increase in hope since women are beginning to bond and find ways to support one another, lift each other up and  advocate together for changes in the diagnosis and treatment of women with PD. For this reason we are working on getting a women support round table at this year’s WPC in Portland. Let me know if you are planning on going!!

Soon we will have flyers that you can share with others regarding  the issues women with PD face. Two sources already  exists – one is with http://www.pdf.org  and “life in balance” a newsletter for people & families living with PD provided by Parkinson’s support solutions (Azilect program) issue 1-2016 – http://www.parkinsonssupportsolutions.com ; 1-866-880-8582

 Join the team. Together we can #endParkinsons.
 

 

 

Gathering of the PD Goddesses: By Maria De Leon

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Calling all the Parkinson’s goddesses and divas out there..

I am glad to say that we are finally making waves in this world of PD. As more institutions are beginning to address the issues relevant to us women living with Parkinson’s disease. So many of us have felt marginalized by this illness which can sometimes rob us of our independence as well as our dignity. We have lived in the shadows for too long feeling ordinary. But, I am here to say that as I live and breath and battle with this neurological disease as so many of you do I have found the strength, thanks to my “Parkinson’s Diva” fellows and supporters, to transform myself. My physical appearance nor has my diseased changed but one day I just woke up and voila!…I had become a full fledged Parkinson’s Diva.

After spending many years worrying about my curves, my hair, my thighs, and so many other physical imperfections as well as fretting over my career… I have found that having PD has had a liberating effect on me. Looking at the mirror, I am fully at peace with everything about myself even those pesky grey hairs and even though I walk slower, not as graceful and my smile is sometimes a bit crooked I feel blessed and irrationally radiant!

Yes!, this may be the dopamine making me a bit manic since  most people would agree that I am only “a legend in my own mind.” However, the friendships I have forged along this journey are real. Perhaps, it is true that “birds of a feather DO flock together!” if that’s the case I am glad that there are a lot of other divas out there – legends in their own mind as well. But, the truth is that I have been gathering divas for a long time-  we have cried together, laughed together, been broken up and put back together, giving, sharing, caring and loving one another has made us all sisters of the same plight and because each and everyone of you are strong and courageous and infinitely capable of making a 101 dishes with the lemons life has thrown your way – you my friends are goddesses in deed!

So no matter where you go, just listen for the buzzing of camaraderie among women with PD  who have shared tears of joy mixed with sorrow fighting for another opportunity to reinvent themselves; there you will see greatness!

In the end we must remember the word’s of one of my favorite poet’s  and a grand- goddess herself, Maya Angelou who quipped: “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it!”

 

********

P.s. I am extra happy since I found out that my book which bears this blogs name ” Parkinson’s diva: a woman’s  guide to Parkinson’s Disease.” will be available at WPC2016

 

 

PD Women Initiative Challenging Conventional Wisdom: by Maria De Leon

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“The happiest people I have known are those that gave themselves no concern about their own souls, but did their utmost to mitigate the miseries of others.” Elizabeth C. Stanton

The other day I was watching the movie titled “Suffragette starring Meryl Steep about the women’s moment for equality in the late 1800’s in London. Seeing all the atrocities committed against women made me think of today’s world and our own women initiative in the Parkinson’s community. For years, women fought to obtain the right to be heard, to be law makers, to be leaders whose voices were meant to be heard above the roar of the crowd. Yet, sometimes I wonder if we have forgotten the sacrifices of those women that came before us? it seems some of us have settled into a quasi state of ‘laissez-faire’ allowing the same atrocities and women discrimination to go on around in and out of our communities. it saddens me to realize that even after a century since women obtained ‘equality,’ we are still considered or at least treated as second class citizens in many realms of society. Unfortunately, much to my chagrin one of these areas lies within my realm of expertise-Parkinson’s disease.

However, recently I have begun to see a stir in the women with PD community in attempting to once again challenge preconceived notions and decrease the disparity that exists in treatment and  general care when it comes to women’s issues. Although, we have gained the right to be heard as women, we still fall short of receiving the same type of treatment as our male counterparts with PD. Women with PD take longer to get diagnosed, see fewer MDS specialists and even when they do they are not offered the same treatment – fewer times get offered the standard treatment of care- DBS-(deep brain stimulation) compared to men with PD. Even when both genders present with the same symptoms such as behavioral problems- independent of the type “men were more likely to receive antipsychotics while women receive antidepressants, according to a study looking at behavioral differences in PD by gender.

However, the longer, I live with PD and work closely with those afflicted by this chronic progressive neurodegenerative illness and their families… I feel a great power surging among the women with Parkinson’s. The  women with PD initiative like the suffragette movement is starting a snowball effect among all women of all  neurological  and medical diseases not just PD. Like a snowball rolling down hill it is destined only to gain strength the further it rolls. The courageous women with PD and their families are fighting their own battle like in days of old to uphold the right to be heard to fight for equality of health care for the things that matter most to all of us women. I am proud to stand in the ranks arm to arm with the many PD women who refuse to be ignored and ostracized and are taking charge of their own lives.

Our purpose is to live and live well with a devastating illness yet be able to do it with such gusto that PD appears to others like a mere inconvenience because we are strong and capable women of caring for our families, children and our parents. But as such strong willed women who take courage and comfort from the women who have gone before us demand our given right to be heard thus be able to receive the same standard of care.

It is in such capacity that we women with PD are trying to make waves and change the status quo once more challenging conventional wisdom regarding women’s issues in PD. So, the other day I was glad to have had the honor and pleasure of meeting with other fabulous woman in the battle against PD across the country in California thanks to social media. We had the chance to laugh and share with one another our concerns, issues and challenges with this so called Parkinson’s disease. We got to discuss the Parkinson’s diva -a women’s guide to Parkinson’s disease book.We vowed not only to uplift one another but to spread awareness in the women’s PD community as well as in the health community advocating for a holistic approach to women’s issues. Thank you to Debbie, Darcy, and Sharon and all the other great women for allowing me into your home and keep up the great job you are doing in your community.

sources:

*Hubert H. Fernandez, MD, †‡Kate L. Lapane, PhD, *‡Brian R. Ott, MD, and *Joseph H. Friedman, MD: (2000) “Gender Differences in the Frequency and Treatment of Behavior Problems in Parkinson’s Disease.” Movement Disorders.15(3). pp. 490–496.

 

Queen for a day! By Maria De Leon

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The other day mom and I went out for a stroll and decided to stop and get something to eat at one of the local restaurants for brunch. As we walked in to a packed restaurant, I noticed everyone was wearing a tiara. One lovely lady stood out as more royally than the rest, she had a larger crown and had a purple robe on- she Must be the Queen I said to myself under my breath. as we were being escorted to the only table available in the middle of the room full of tiara wearing women I suddenly felt naked and out of place without mine. I leaned over and whispered to mom, “if I had known it was wear your crown day, I would have brought mine. ”  But then I remembered that a Diva  does not need a tiara to feel special, she is unique and special all in her own way. Nevertheless, I was thrilled to see a room full of women who enjoyed life as much as I did and wanted to know what this event was all about? Any club where you get to go out in public and wear a tiara is just my  kind of club as long as it empowers women.

Mom and I had a great time wearing our own invisible crowns sitting among all the other divas who were sipping mimosas and laughing out-loud just as we were. Of course as soon as I got home I had to find out who these women were. I discovered to my great astonishment that we had lots in common, how I had never heard of the Pulpwood Queen Book Club I could not believe.

Turns out this was a nation wide phenomena of a women’s book club having their girlfriends weekend in my own home town which only made sense since the group was founded not far from here in 2000 by Kathy Patrick who now runs “Beauty & the Book”- to depict that reading is always in style. so like me, they too believe that knowledge is not only powerful but sexy and attractive and a way for women to conquer anything they put their minds to it even PD as long as its done with  distinction and style.

What I love about this group especially its founder is their willingness to hear the voice of women and help them share their message across the country while getting a nice coiffeur. You simply can’t beat that.

I then thought that all you beautiful Parkinson’s Divas out there and I should start acting more like Queens even if for a day! Not in the nasty kind of way, demanding and having everyone do everything for you while you spend all day at spa getting massages, along with manicures & pedicures. Although, this may be a very nice treat once in a while to help relieve some of the stress of living with PD or caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease. Rather learn to walk with class and confidence as a true diva/queen should to show PD who is really in control.

Queens are always

  • polite and kind towards others. Sometimes hard to do especially when we are in pain. take a deep breath and count to 10.
  • they enjoy and feel great pride and self-worth in helping those in need, especially other women with PD.
  • learn to deal with the mundane and not so fun stuff of our disease with pizzazz.
  • think like a queen – only positive thoughts- we are after all the sum of our thoughts. you have been through a lot in your life and you are still standing, so a little PD will not topple you over.
  • practice your smile- makes you more beautiful and exercises those facial muscles as well.
  • always look dashing- ready for any occasion- don’t forget your favorite lipstick or scarf, etc.
  • finally remember that what ever set backs you may have it is only a stepping stone for greater and stronger victories.

Finally, remember it is the Queen who protects the king (and his house) in the game of chess as in real life!!

In the meantime, working on spreading the word on women’s issues in PD through a women’s book club.

 

Fast & Furious Life of a “Diva”: By Maria De Leon

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The year has taken off at a fast pace and I am barely able to keep up…my goal of returning to the pool and walking has not quite panned out- already beginning to feel the weight of it all. I had a wonderful holidays with my family for the first time in almost 10 years I actually felt like celebrating. I was still basking on the joy of tradition and family when life takes an unexpected turn. I should be used to this but with this illness it seems that I become less able to cope with sudden changes and stresses leaving me a bit out of sorts.

My mom had barely left when I receive a call she was hospitalized- no chance to rest. I did a mad dash to Houston and as I approached the hospital a sense of doom, grief and Deja-vu took over me particularly as I walked into the main corridor heading up the elevators to the same floor where my dad had last been hospitalized before the bomb was dropped on our lap. My mom was now across the room my dad had last occupied and we were being taken care of by the same nice hospitalist whose demeanor saddened as well as he entered the room and saw my mom laying there. Upon discharge the attendant was not certain who the patient was since both of us were in pretty bad shape.

Of course after discharge mom could not stay home alone so back to my house we were. So it has been a comedy of errors taking turns caring for each other- the worst days were when she was extremely in need of my care and I could barely function. The day was especially trying as I had to go up and down the stairs to tend to her. By the end of the day I felt like I was crawling up the stairs. I kept reminding myself that at least I got a weeks’ worth of exercise, as per my account!

Trying to get her down from a high bed to the bathroom when both of us were having various degrees of vertigo and dizziness was something to behold. Equally difficult is attempting to sleep with her since she needs rest but the stress of it all has kicked my REM behavior into over drive. More medicines for me and a bit more for her.

Then the hardest part came telling her she has a brain tumor – although most likely benign still a “BRAIN TUMOR.” Having had my grandmother die from a similar condition does not sit well with me. I try to remain optimistic and not let her see my fear and worry. I crumble a bit more inside as I imagine not having her around, I gasp for air. Even though I try not to think about it, I wonder is this also my future – something else to look forward to?

So I do my routine mental status exam to ensure no interruption of brain function but I seem to be struggling more with word finding than she is – takes me 3 hours to recall the name of a “hummingbird.” I am exhausted!

I just pray for strength to care for her and for complete resolution of her tumor. Meantime, I keep holding on to Hope and faith and focusing all of my energy on my beautiful daughter. I say to myself “Que Sera, Sera!” As I drift to sleep with thoughts of ….sitting by the beach in Hawaii.

Woman to Woman: How to be a Successful Parkinson’s Mentor Even When You Think You Have Nothing Else to Give. By Dr. De Leon

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photoDo I Have the stuff mentors are made off?

First, when you are diagnosed with a chronic illness like Sacha and I have as countless other women out there who have been given similar prognosis have wondered at one time or another whether they still had something to teach? When an illness such as Parkinson’s disease first strikes invariably we feel at a loss and maybe a bit like the wind has been taken out of our sails. Some perhaps have even felt like their best years were behind and their dreams were now over so how could I imagine asking anyone to become a mentor?

Well, I want you to close your eyes and think of someone who was there for you at some point in your life when you truly needed a friend or some guidance-are you smiling now? I bet that person brings all kinds of warm fuzzy feelings. Now, you are really thinking, I REALLY don’t have the RIGHT stuff! But, when you stop to think about it that person that took time to see you through the tough times and encouraged you to grow and develop your talents was not a super human being – wonder woman with a cape and truth lasso leaping tall buildings performing heroic deeds although they might have seemed like that to you. Instead these wonderful creatures we learned to lean on, depend on, trust, and bring into the fold of our families started as mentors giving the best part of themselves in such a way that they helped us become the very best we could be. We all have unique talents and skills which could be used to build and foster others talents. After my diagnosis, I thought I would never be able to work with Parkinson’s patients again and ten years later I am more deeply involved in the lives of so many people with PD throughout the world in a level that I never would have thought possible. Because I was fortunate to have many great female role models, one of whom continues to play a vital role in my life even after the change in career and onset of PD that I feel compelled to emulate her (Dr. Mya Schiess) as a great woman healer and mentor.

Remember, the best way to succeed in life and be truly happy is to do something meaningful for another human being- this is a biblical principle.

When you become involved in someone else’s well- being you suddenly begin to heal as well. Give it a shot. Don’t worry about being qualified. No one is ever truly qualified until they begin the journey. All it takes is a genuine desire to help others.

Still not certain?

Can you answer any of the following?

  • I have fallen, failed and been hurt
  • I have endured disappointments
  • I want a better world for my children
  • I too live with a chronic illness and feel a need to help those with similar plight

If you answered YES to any of these you have the STUFF to be a Mentor…me

 

What is the role of a Mentor?

Now, that you have seen how truly gifted you are and how you may begin to feel better about your lot in life through mentoring, you are still wondering if you have what it takes. After all, you don’t have much energy these days and sometimes you feel like all you do is go to the doctor or take care of others already being a mom, a wife, and a million other tittles imposed by those around you.

I would suggest start with practical things that would benefit someone with your same plight or interests. For instance, if you have another woman you are trying to help (can be someone older or younger) may offer her a ride to the store or doctor if she needs it and your schedule allows it (you are already going in that direction or to the same place). This way you are being of assistance to another and not costing you much time or effort. Yet, the sentiment is extraordinarily regarded. So be a servant.

Sometimes, what we really need is for someone to hear us. This is especially truly when we are first given bad news. Use the feelings that you felt and allow yourself to empathize and sympathize for some else in those same shoes. We don’t really expect anyone to solve all of our problems or cure our illness, but a shoulder to cry on is a much appreciated and highly valued thing. This simple act of listening and encouraging someone is typically the first step to a long meaningful relationship returning confidence and worth to the person in need. You can do this over the phone or skype but much better and more effective in person. Be a listener.

At other times, it may be required that you help someone make important life decisions based on your experience and their abilities – a great deal of finesse is required as well as love for the person you are helping for you will not be merely dispensing advice but actual counsel with purpose of making their lives better. A wise counselor always listens more than she talks. Use open ended questions. Be a Counselor.

Finally, you have been where your friend has not and know the perils and victories. Lead the path with love allowing her to make her own decisions. You cannot impose or insist that they do things your way to arrive at the same destination. They must try out things for themselves feeling what is right for them so they can be successful. Learning to find their own unique voice, talent or skill to share with the world that will make them shine just as you shine despite your illness. Sacha’s talent is art, mine is still teaching. Be a Guide.

AS we begin to discover what makes us different in the world of PD from our male counterparts, we should also begin to build up one another as women encouraging, lifting, educating, so that the women with PD that come behind us can be the next leaders, counselors, advocates, guides, researchers and friends for the next generation of women with PD who may even unlock the key to the CURE!

Remember ” A woman is like a tea bag- you never know how STRONG she is until she gets in hot water.” Eleanor Roosevelt

@copyright 2015

all rights reserved by Maria De Leon