Because You Loved Me

Part 1: Healing Series

Psalm 91:14

The LORD says, "I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name"


Fear.Worry.Regret.Anger. Four words that really do run together don't they? Often we find ourselves struggling with one or the other.Life can be moving along at a gentle pace and a bump in the road can cause one of these to raise its ugly intentions. It can also cause several of them to join in unison and cause havoc in our lives.

They are also the four most common things that can make a person cry. You cry when your afraid. You cry when you worry. People cry because they have regrets. I know many who cry because they are angry. The interesting thing is that each can cause the other. If you worry about life you may start having regrets. This can lead to anger and then fear of what is to come.

When I was newly married and had two kids I worried a lot. Heck When I was a kid I worried about everything. Often I worried so much my stomach would hurt. later we found that I had an ulcer, probably from worrying to much. If there was a problem I was the person who would loose sleep to worry about it.

 If my baby sister had a problem I would lay awake at night and worry for her. I remember telling her one time that she could rest at night because I worried enough for her that she did not need too. If friends were sick I worried. If there were money issues I worried and if there was any kind of unhappiness in the family....You guessed it I worried.

When I was diagnosed with Chairi I was more than a little worried. Krishna and I had two young kids, no life insurance, no disability and I was about to have a major surgery.The doctor could not warn me enough that the surgery had major risks including death. I could also have issues and be paralyzed or a number of things he said he needed to caution me about. The worry, fear, anger and regret started.

I would lay awake at night worrying about the future for Kris and the kids. That would lead to fear of what might happen and then, well you guessed it, along would come anger and then regret. I would get out of bed more tired then when I went to bed. I was a mess. Publicly, I kept a happy face but inside I was in turmoil.

Then I remember what I was always telling others, "Put it in Gods hands." I needed to practiced what I preached. So that night before bed I prayed. It was not over night that it got better for me but eventually it did get better. Then the week before my surgery I was tossing and turning all night. My concern for that night was, If I die during surgery will I have done enough to go to heaven?

I fell asleep to find myself in a winding dream that carried me all through my life. All through the dream  I was worried because I was not going to go to heaven.I kept asking "Do I get to go?" I need to know do I get to go to heaven?

In my dream a loud chorus of voices sang in unison the word JESUS. From beyond the horizon Jesus rose in a cloud of sun rays and mist. He was floating to heaven for his eternal life. As he floated people all around started floating up with him. They were going to heaven. Suddenly my feet left the ground and I was floating too. I was so excited and yet so confused.

Could it be that a sinner like me could be saved? Could it be that a person that was so imperfect could be so loved? With all the mistakes I had made could it be that I was really going? I shouted out to Jesus and said "Why me? How come I get to go?" Jesus said " be still and listen."

Psalms 46:10

 "Be still, and know that I am God; 

I woke up.

Just like that I was not going to get the answer. Why would I wake up at such a critical point in the dream? Now it seemed like it would end up more like a night mare. Then I realized the alarm radio had gone off and that is what woke me. The song on the radio was Jodee Messina and it was titled Because You Loved Me.

I believe in things unseen
I believe in the message of a dream
And I believe in what you are
because you loved me

That is it isn't it? People need to love God. They need to put their worries in God's hands. Stop listening to the noise around you that causes anxiety, fear, worry and regret and instead listen to God.
We cant let the bad things in life control us because those things will eventually change. So will the good things in life. Instead if we put it all in Gods hands we will find peace because unlike life God never changes. He stays the same.

You need to put God in charge of your life and he will calm the storms. Remember God may not be the center of your universe but you are the center of his universe. My life is a mess! A wonderful, bad, gooey, good mess. That is what makes me...me. He loves me for all of it the good and the bad.

So when your are dealt a bad day, a bad diagnoses or even Parkinson's give it up to God. He is bigger than all of that. His love is stronger than anything. His glory will shine through.As difficult as my days can be and as frustrated as I can get with the new limitations that I face the bible tells us to not worry.

1 Peter 5:7

Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you

Psalm 136:26

Give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures forever.

God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He loves you and so do I. He is with you always and he is with me everyday as I make "My Journey."

Click Here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rU_GhL2Hexk

My soul can be in complete turmoil my legs weak under me and my body feeling yucky.
Then she touches me and I am reminded that God has truly blessed me and complete peace takes over my body.

Editors Note: Tomorrow Night: What other things can you do to help get through the difficult times? While God is a great answer for me, we can't just sit and wait our whole lives for things to get better. Their is a life to live a whole world waiting for us to get to work fixing our community. 

Take It Easy On Yourself

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

In everything in life there are rules. Rules to driving, rules for cooking and rules at home. No cell phone while driving, don't mix oil and vinegar and keep your shoes off the furniture. I am not sure how the shoe one ever stuck or if its even a true rule but Krishna says it to me all the time.

After my brain surgery there were a lot of rules. No walking long distances, no running, no jumping and no sports. No bouncing, no flouncing and no trouncing. :) If I did my head would throb. The sitting made me gain weight and the exercise made me hurt. Any kind of exercise felt like a death sentence.

The other issue was the different medicines. Some made me so sick I would lose a ton of weight and others made me balloon up to almost 270 pounds. I finally stopped all medicines but there was still the issue of exercise and weight. Remember I LOVE PIZZA!

Now today there are new issues and new worries as I need to be careful to take care of this amazing body I have. Whether you have an illness or not, taking care of yourself is important so I have done some homework to share information for those with Parkinson's.

If you've received a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, you'll need to work closely with your doctor to find a treatment plan that offers you the greatest relief from symptoms with the fewest side effects. Certain lifestyle changes may also help make living with Parkinson's disease easier.

Healthy eating

While there's no food or combination of foods proven to help in Parkinson's disease, some foods may help ease some of the symptoms. For example, eating foods high in fiber and drinking an adequate amount of fluids. My issue is water as it makes me want to get sick. I cant even look at the stuff in the morning. Then a friend reccoemended Amino Acid drops or some kind of flavoring. I found a dash of Coke Cola worked great.

A balanced diet also provides nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, that may be beneficial for people with Parkinson's disease.Fish is very good. Salmon, anchovies, shrimp etc. Yes all the expensive stuff. I am moving to Maine.

Exercise

Exercising may increase your muscle strength, flexibility and balance. Exercise can also improve your well-being and reduce depression or anxiety.

Your doctor may suggest you work with a physical therapist to learn an exercise program that works for you. You may also try exercises such as walking, swimming, gardening, dancing, water aerobics or stretching. 

Parkinson's disease can disturb your sense of balance, making it difficult to walk with a normal gait. Exercise may improve your balance. These suggestions may also help:

• Try not to move too quickly.
• Aim for your heel to strike the floor first when you're walking.
• If you notice yourself shuffling, stop and check your posture. It's best to stand up straight.
• Look in front of you, not directly down, while walking.

Avoiding falls

In the later stages of the disease, you may fall more easily. In fact, you may be thrown off balance by just a small push or bump. The following suggestions may help:

• Make a U-turn instead of pivoting your body over your feet.
• Distribute your weight evenly between both feet, and don't lean.
• Avoid carrying things while you walk.
• Avoid walking backward.

Daily living activities

Daily living activities — such as dressing, eating, bathing and writing — can be difficult for people with Parkinson's disease. An occupational therapist can show you techniques that make daily life easier.

Love and Laughter are the best medicines for all that makes you ill.
God has provided plenty for me.

So all things in moderation. All things that is except for love and laughter. During all seasons of life we must remember to love one another and laugh through the good and the bad. So here is to combination pizza with anchovies. Hey they are good for you.

Remember God Loves you and so do I.

Blessings My Friends


1 Corinthians 13:13
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Proverbs 17:22
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

hamiltonron22@gmail.com

We Are Never Forgotten

I can safely say that I have always been blessed that God is there for me in good and bad times and in all of them he receives glory. From the challenges I may have faced in childhood and my school years. Then into marriage and brain surgery. ( Well those could be the same thing) But really I have been slammed around pretty good but I always end up on my feet because God props me up and makes me shine.

Through out this Blog I have talked about the symptoms I started noticing when my Parkinson's started to show itself. I am amazed now how I can look back and say "Oh that was not from the brain surgery but from the Parkinson's." The realization of the disease must come first and then its important to follow your progress and symptoms so that you are aware of improvements and set backs. That's why I Blog.

On December 1, 2016 I was diagnosed with Parkinson's and my symptoms were as follows:

1. Hand Tremors
2. Rigid stiff walk
3. Leg shakes
4. Balance Problems
5. Raspy Voice/Slow speech
6. Poor Writing/Small letters
7. Sleeping Issues
8. Memory
9. Stone Face
10.Dizzy

My neurologists first goal was to slow the progression of the disease and get back my memory. It is obvious that I can work if I cant walk but if my memory did not improve I was concerned about the future of any kind of employment.

Last night I wrote about Carbidopa-Levodpa. This combination medication is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as shakiness, stiffness and difficulty moving. My doctor first gave me a low dose with a few tablets a day. A few weeks later when I returned he was not happy that my legs still shuffled and my arms just hung by my side when I walked. So he upped the number of pills a day.

In January I went back and still very little improvement. In fact, I would be somewhere and people would say "Have you taken your meds today because you are really shaking."It was true and if I missed by medicine it was noticeable in no time at all as I would really shake. I would hide it by crossing my arms or putting my hands in my pocket.

So that day he increased my daily pills. My next visit nothing. This went on into March. Along the way medicine was added to help with my memory and to slow the progression of the disease.It was at the early March appointment that he really upped the dosage and now I would be taking it every six hours. This meant almost tripling my dosage from the original in December.

The first two weeks I noticed nothing. Then the nausea started, Every time I took my pill I would spend about 20 minutes trying not to throw up. If I was at work I would just hold my breathe and hope I did not throw up on my key board. I had a talk with a friend at work who reminded me that when fighting a disease you have to be patient and be in the journey for the long haul. He reminded me that sometimes you needed to give it time.

As I moved into spring break I had an awful week. My arms were worse, I was not sleeping and when I did I was having night mares. My legs felt weak and aching and my mood was miserable. So what did I do? I kept pushing and trying to control the situation. On Wednesday of that week I told Kris I could not take anymore of the situation and needed to call the doctor about the medicine. She agreed and also told me I needed to try and relax.

That night I remembered how I had gone through similar trials with the brain surgery. So I put it into Gods hands. DUH right? Here I always preach it but I always forget to do it. I am such a man. The bible says:

1 Peter 5:7

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Of course he does. He always has and he has never let me down. So I stubbornly handed it over to God.

I hate to say it was fast but guess what. I woke the next morning a different man. I felt stronger complete and relaxed. My mind was clear and my energy was amazing. It was noticeable by everyone around me. Finally, I have found my groove and my old self. I am amazed.

But really am I not surprised because that is how God works. Sure the medicine helps but it took me giving it up to find peace in the situation. My days are full of energy. The problem now is to remember to not over do it. This weekend I blew it. I felt good so I over did it and each night I suffered with the leg cramps that come with Parkinson's and I lost a lot of sleep. Then I tried to do yard work Sunday and that just added to the whole problem.

I have a lot to learn about Parkinson's and I know that I am in the early stages.I will have good days and bad days. The days will slowly become more challenging. I know there will be ups and downs. Yes slowly this disease can move along and take over different parts of my body. But I tell you the truth, it cannot take over my soul. It cannot take over my faith and I know that no matter how long the road is God is there and he is ALWAYS with me on "My Journey."

Blessings to you my friends.

Editors Note: Prayer of the day. Sara Lockhart is my cousin and her dad is fighting Parkinson's. Please pray for wisdom and strength for her family. Sara I love you with all my heart and your fight is mine too.

Who walks on the waters
Who speaks to the sea
Who stands in the fire beside me
He roars like a lion
He bled as the lamb
He carries my healing in his hands
Jesus

Picture of the night. Cindy is a friend from childhood that I LOVE and adore.
 Miss you bunches and will see you soon.

We All Want A Cure

Editors Note: As I move through the next few weeks I will cover different treatments for Parkinson's Disease. I will also be featuring the writing of my daughter who will tell her story of living with me as we make this journey. That should be a story. Thank you for joining my family as we make this trip and supporting us with your love as we make "My Journey."

I remember as a small child when I had pneumonia. For several days I felt like I had an elephant on my chest and could not sleep. At night no matter how tired I was I would toss and turn because I could barley breathe. I remember late one night I was sleeping on the couch and was coughing all night. In the middle of the night a hand reached out and touched me to calm me down. It was my mom sleeping on the floor next to me. The incredible part is the fact that the floor was cement and had no rug or carpet to speak of, but there she was laying there to watch over her sick child.

Many years later when I had my brain surgery I remember that in the fog of all the pain hand after hand would touch my hand to bring comfort to me. Even though I could not visually make out who it was I could tell by the touch who it was and that brought me comfort.

There was the small soft hand with the wedding ring. That was Krishna. Then there was the woman's hand with narrow fingers. That was my moms hand. Finally there was the rough hand with callouses. That was my dad's hand. Then late at night when I was all alone I could feel the healing hand of God.

Everyone that is diagnosed with an illness or disease is looking for a cure. We take Vitamin C for colds, we use a variety of meds for the flu and tums takes care of heartburn. There are old fashion remedies like vinegar for sunburns, baking soda for upset tummies and who can forget smashing an aspirin sugar to make it easier to swallow. I think there is a song about that.

As the disease gets bigger the cures become harder to find. We have all heard the stories that so many go through fighting cancer. Chemotherapy, radiation and laser treatment. The cancer is one big battle but so is the symptoms of the medications and treatments. Sickness and nausea are often painful reminder for those fighting cancer that the battle is difficult.

This weekend I was at a wedding and was reminded once again how brave those who fight the cancer battle are. Terri Brockmire you are in my prayers. I am praying that you and Pastor Mark have ZERO'S. 

For those of us fighting Parkinson's Disease there are many different roads that doctors may take to fight the different symptoms of the disease.Tonight I discuss the most common Parkinson's drug. 

In future Blogs I will discuss other medications and treatments.I feel that info should come in small doses. Get IT?

I am on a few medications. The biggest thing for me is learning to not over do it. When doing physical activity. This weekend I helped at a wedding and that night I had an awful night. I had the leg cramps that come from Parkinson's and the stress that I caused from pushing my body really enhanced my shaking through the night while I was trying to sleep.

Sunday I thought well maybe I should do yard work and loosen up my muscles. I over did it. While exercise is good it is important to remember that God says to do everything in moderation. Even yard work. Remember to always listen to that small voice that talks to you in your head. Most the time it is God giving you loving advice. It might also be your wife saying take out the trash. Do it.

Today I met with an old friend who is joining the walk with Christ . We discussed all the questions so many of us have asked about this type of journey. My biggest advice to him is the same I give you. Life with or with out God is not perfect. Without God there is little hope. With God there is not only great hope but there is also peace. That is what I feel in my life, a peace that brings me comfort. A peace and comfort that I rest in as I make "My Journey."

 What follows comes from the Parkinson's Foundation.

Since most symptoms of PD are caused by a lack of dopamine in the brain, many Parkinson’s drugs are aimed at either temporarily replenishing dopamine or mimicing the action of dopamine. These types of drugs are called dopaminergic medications. They generally help reduce muscle rigidity, improve speed and coordination of movement and lessen tremor.

Always remember that medication is only part of the overall treatment plan for combatting PD. Learn more about the available medications on these pages, but don't forget exercise and complementary therapies.

Caution: PD medications may have interactions with certain foods, other medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, over-the-counter cold pills and other remedies. Anyone taking a PD medication should talk to their doctor and pharmacist about potential drug interactions.

If you make the switch, be sure to follow these tips:

• Report to your physician how effective the drug is. 

• Carefully keep a diary of any side effects.

• Record dose adjustments that your physicians make (higher or lower).

• In general, try to stay with a single drug manufacturer for your generic medications. You may need to ask your pharmacist to special order for you.

What Are the Facts?

• The drug levodopa is synthesized in the brain into dopamine. It is the most important first-line drug for the management of Parkinson's.

• Levodopa is almost always given in combination with the drug carbidopa, which prevents the nausea that can be caused by levodopa alone. Carbidopa is also a levodopa enhancer. When added, carbidopa enables a much lower dose of levodopa (80% less!) and helps reduce the side effects of nausea and vomiting. Pills containing both drugs are often labeled “carbidopa-levodopa,” with the active components listed in alphabetical order.

• Levodopa was developed in the late 1960s and was the first medication proven effective in treating a chronic neurodegenerative disease like PD. It remains the single most effective agent in the management of Parkinson’s symptoms.

• Levodopa in pill form is absorbed in the blood from the small intestine and travels through the blood to the brain, where it is converted into dopamine and stored in the neurons until needed by the body for movement.

• Carbidopa-levodopa tablets are available in immediate-release and slow-release forms as well as dissolvable tablets that are placed under the tongue.

• Carbidopa-levodopa extended release (ER) capsules (Rytary™) maintain levodopa concentrations longer than the immediate-release or other available oral levodopa formulations. Following an initial peak at about one hour, plasma levodopa concentrations are maintained for about 4 to 5 hours before declining.

• Carbidopa/levodopa is also now available via a dopamine intestinal infusion pump which provides 16 continuous hours of carbidopa and levodopa for motor symptoms. The small, portable infusion pump delivers carbidopa and levodopa directly into the small intestine.  

Common Side Effects

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Lightheadedness

• Lowered blood pressure

• Confusion

• Dyskinesia (if used as a long-term therapy; between 3-5 years)

• People who use levodopa long term may experience dyskinesia at some point, usually three to five years after starting the medication.

• The term dyskinesia describes involuntary, erratic, writhing movements of the face, arms, legs, and/or trunk, which usually occur one to two hours after a dose of levodopa has been absorbed into the bloodstream and is having its peak clinical effect.

Uncommon Side Effects

• Sleepiness, sudden onset sleep

• Impulse control disorders (compulsive behaviors) such as excessive gambling, shopping, internet use or increased sexual behavior

Eating Proteins with Levodopa/Sinemet*

• It is best to take Sinemet 30 to 60 minutes before eating a meal. This allows the Sinemet to be quickly absorbed before the food can interfere.

• Take the Sinemet along with foods that don’t contain proteins.

• Ginger tea is a good choice for many people, because it often “settles the stomach”.

• A graham cracker or soda cracker along with the ginger tea may help too.

• These foods are very low in protein and should not interfere with the absorption of Sinemet.

Some Days Are Diamonds Some Days Are Stone

Its today 1999. April 21, 1999 some 18 years ago and I have just finished my first day in the hospital after my brain surgery and I am exhausted. Today I have had to walk, get shots, take medicine and an endless day of answering questions. I cannot tell you how many times I have been asked today " How do you feel?" My wife finally says "you are probably getting tired of being asked."Truth is that question reminds me that people are doing all this FOR me to HELP me.

As I lay here listening to my heart monitor beep my room is quite. My mind is overwhelmed with wonder of what lies ahead and how I will overcome this situation. Little do I know what waits for me at home. My family, my community and my friends all waiting to carry me through the journey.

What many do not understand is that being asked are you ok feels good. It shows care. Many do not realize that when they say "What can I do?' They are already doing it because they are there and that shows love and care.

Too often people get scared by medical challenges that friends and family are going through and they stay away because they do not know what to say. Others stay away because they are afraid of what they might see. In general people do not like to look at pain. Others do not know what to expect and stay away because they do not know what to do.

Over the last few weeks I have received emails and messages from many that have traveled through medical journeys and all of them say the say thing. "Just knowing people are there helps me cope." One person said "They can just talk about the weather and I would be happy because they comfort me by just being there."

Others tell me "My friend has cancer and I dont know what to say." I told him he did not have to say anything. Watch the game on TV with each other. Play checkers. Eat Pizza! Pizza cures EVERYTHING!

Also, you cannot just look at someone and see that they are having a bad day. People hide their yucky days or their sick tummies or their pain. So don't assume that it is a good or bad day. Below is some information from The Parkinson's Disease Foundation. I have included the website if you would like to do some reading.



http://www.pdf.org/

Secrets, Myths and Misconceptions

Misconception/Myth

If someone with Parkinson's looks good then they also feel good.

People will often assume that if someone with PD looks good then they must be having a good day.

Reality

PD symptoms fluctuate and not all of them are visible. Over time, people with PD notice an increasing tendency for their medications wear off between doses. For this reason, they appear at one moment may not reflect how they feel most of the time. Also, medications can cause their own issues for PD patients and medication cannot always help the PD symptoms.

Secret

It is a good idea for the patient to keep a diary of the symptoms. This can be shared with the doctor. For family and friends it is never bad to say "How do you feel?" Its nice to be able to share and care.

Myth/Misconception

The doctor can predict future

Reality

PD is highly variable from person to person and even the best PD expert has no way of knowing the future of each PD patient.

Secret

A PD patient can change their future. You can improve your disease at each stage by ensuring that you stay fit and receive adequate sleep and proper nutrition.Exercise is important for improving mobility, stamina, mood and quality of life. This can be challenging because fatigue is a common PD symptom sleeplessness is also a common symptom.

Family and friends can help by first understanding and then helping encourage the patient. Invite them for walks, games of tennis or to bike ride. A simple game of catch is good for aching arms and it takes two to play. This can allow for some great times to talk.

Finally, Pray. Remember we are all healed through Christ.

Matthew 11:28 

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Isn't God great? No matter how bad I feel my spirit can rest assured knowing that he is there for me. So the greatest act of love and kindness you can do for someone is pray. No matter how far away you live from them, no matter what time of day you remember them and no matter how much time or money you have a prayer can be made. Praying Can be done from anywhere, it can be done anytime of day and it is FREE!

Pray the Zero Prayer.Zero Progression. Zero Symptoms. Zero Disease. Zero Pain. ZERO!

I can write my Blog everyday and tell you all about Parkinson's. If you read my Blog you will learn about the illness, the statistic and the challenges. I can tell you the challenges the research and the cost of medicine. Eventually you will remember information. Maybe know more then you care too.

You can also read all these bible verses, read about my trust in God and the love that Christ has for me. He also loves you. But you must choose and decide if you want him in your life. That is your decision, I just know one thing: I need him and I will carry him with me. Actually he will carry me each step of "My Journey."

Blessings

If you would like the My Journey Prayer Warriors to Pray for you or a person in need or if you would like to be a Prayer Warrior please email me at hamiltonron22@gmail.com

You should always read to the end for the bloopers.

The Stages Of Life

Thank you Sister Sarah R for your love......

All parts of our life seems to come in stages. There are the four seasons winter, spring summer, and fall. There are our growing years baby, toddler, teen, adult and elderly. Single life, dating life and married life. Then there are the stages of education Kindergarten, 1-8, 9-12 and college.

I remember how slow it seemed getting to start kindergarten and then all of a sudden it was over and first grade happened. In a blink there was 8th grade graduation and then high school graduation. The next step for me was graduation from Columbia College and then CSU Stanislaus. Finally, some years later there was the graduation with my Masters Degree.

The important part of each stage are the people you have along for the ride. I was fortunate that my parents have been with me through each stage of my education. They were there to take me to the first day of kindergarten and then they were there for my final diploma, a Masters Degree in Education. Krishna has been with me through the college years and finally the kids for the last two diplomas.

I remember that Katie Nay sat next to me at my Kindergarten graduation. Kim Wright walked in with me at 8th grade graduation. High school graduation was a single file line by name so Jeff Hansen was right there with me and finally, college graduation was my counselors walking me to the stage.

The amazing thing that happened to me was that one person graduated from several of these with me. First she was there with me at 8th grade graduation from Jamestown school in 1980. In 1984 we graduated together from Sonora High. GO CATS! We graduated from Columbia College together and finally in 1996 we both got our Bachelors degrees together.

Angie Thompson was there each step of the way. It was not easy for her as she made her way to those diploma,s but all along the way we cheered each other on and in the end we made it. Together! This is how we survive these stages in our lives, with the support and love of those who are cheering us on.

Angie Thompson Underwood and I 1996

Parkinson’s disease impacts people in many different ways. Not everyone will experience all of the symptoms of Parkinson’s, and if they do, they won’t necessarily experience them in quite the same order, or at the same level of intensity. Even so, there are typical patterns of progression in Parkinson’s disease that are defined in stages.

You might hear your doctor refer to your Hoehn and Yahr stage. This scale, first introduced in 1967, is a simple rating tool used by clinicians as a means to generally describe how motor symptoms progress in Parkinson’s. Another more comprehensive tool is the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). It takes into account factors other than motor symptoms, including mental functioning, mood and social interaction.

While symptoms are unique to each person, and the progression of symptoms varies from person to person, knowing the typical stages of Parkinson’s can help you cope with changes as they occur. In some people, it could take 20 years to go through these stages. In others, the disease progresses more quickly.

Stages of Parkinson's Disease

Stage One

During this initial stage, the person has mild symptoms that generally do not interfere with daily activities. Tremor and other movement symptoms occur on one side of the body only. Friends and family may notice changes in posture, walking and facial expressions.

Stage Two

In stage two of Parkinson’s, the symptoms start getting worse. Tremor, rigidity and other movement symptoms affect both sides of the body. Walking problems and poor posture may become apparent. In this stage, the person is still able to live alone, but completing day-to-day tasks becomes more difficult and may take longer. 

Stage Three

Stage three is considered mid-stage in the progression of the disease. Loss of balance and slowness of movements are hallmarks of this phase. Falls are more common. Though the person is still fully independent, symptoms significantly impair activities of daily living such as dressing and eating. 

Stage Four

During this stage of Parkinson’s, symptoms are severe and very limiting. It’s possible to stand without assistance, but movement may require a walker. The person needs help with activities of daily living and is unable to live alone. 

Stage Five

This is the most advanced and debilitating stage of Parkinson’s disease. Stiffness in the legs may make it impossible to stand or walk. The person requires a wheelchair or is bedridden. Around-the-clock nursing care is required for all activities. The person may experience hallucinations and delusions. While stage five focuses on motor symptoms, the Parkinson’s community acknowledges that there are many important non - motor symptoms as well.

Parkinson’s disease is generally thought of as a disease that only involves movement. But in addition to so-called motor symptoms such as slowness of movement, tremor and stiffness, most people develop other health problems related to Parkinson's. These symptoms are diverse but are collectively known as non-motor symptoms.

It’s important to realize that non-motor symptoms are common and can be more troublesome and disabling than motor symptoms. That’s why you should watch for these symptoms and discuss early changes with your doctor. Research shows that people develop some non-motor symptoms, like depression, sleep problems and loss of smell, years before they get a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Non-motor symptoms can include:

• Mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and irritability

• Cognitive changes such as problems with focused attention and planning, slowing of thought, language and memory difficulties, personality changes, dementia

• Hallucinations and delusions

• Orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing, light-headedness)

• Sleep disorders such as insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), rapid eye movement behavior disorder (RBD), vivid dreams, talking and moving during sleep, restless legs syndrome (RLS)/periodic leg movements disorder (PLMD)

• Constipation and early satiety (a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts)

• Pain

• Fatigue

• Vision problems

• Excessive sweating, especially of hands and feet, with no or little exercise

• Increase in dandruff (seborrhea dermatitis) or oily skin

• Urinary urgency, frequency and incontinence

• Loss of sense of smell

• Sexual problems

• Weight loss or weight gain

• Impulsive control disorders such as binge eating, excessive shopping or gambling, usually a side effect of medications

Mixed motor and non-motor symptoms

The same PD symptoms that occur in muscles of the body – tremor, stiffness and slow movement – can occur in the muscles used in speaking and swallowing, resulting in the following changes:

• Soft voice

• Drooling or excessive saliva due to slow swallowing

• Speech and swallowing problems

What Can You Do?

Just be there for each stage of the journey. For me the daily support has been great and the prayers and comments are uplifting. I have not dealt with any depression and I know it is from the love and support I have from my friends and family. Today, Al O"Brien gave me a hug in the post office. Saturday, Jennifer gave me one at Sears. It feels good to know that people are on your side. 

A wave, a smile, a thumbs up, a text and a note saying "hey I am praying the ZERO prayer for you" are all things that help a FAMILY get through the tough moments of the day. Remember, just because a person looks good, I always look good, does not mean they feel good. I know many cancer fighters who look marvelous on the outside but inside they are telling themselves not to get sick.

The greatest way to help someone fight and survive is by being there for them with positive loving support. Prayer is great, a phone call is great. Combination pizza is greater. JK! I ask you please don't feel sorry for me, instead celebrate all the blessings that God is giving me each day. The bible says:

Nehemiah 8:10

Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

That joy and that strength from you is what I all need everyday, rain or shin. As I take each step I will need your love and support and I will love and support you right back. This is more then just my story its your story too. This is our life together and it is the life I will treasure as I make "My Journey." 

Blessings

hamiltonron22@gmail.com

What is This Thing Called Parkinson's?

Join My Journey Today

I think it is important to remember that everyone has challenges in life. Today I was contacted by someone who needed prayer for her mom and another that needed prayer for cancer. I love praying for others so keep the requests coming in. If you would like to send a prayer request OR if you want to be a My Journey Prayer Warrior and pray for others send me your info at the email at the end of this Blog and join the journey.

The Bible tells us to pray for each other and for ourselves. It even tells us to pray for our enemies. Really. The bible says:

John 15:7
If you abide in me, and my words in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you

James 5:13
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.

John 14:13
Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

When I pray I cry. Ok I cry about almost anything but the power of prayer really overwhelms. Why? Because I cannot believe that I am so blessed. I cannot believe that God loves me so much that he has chosen me to serve him. What an honor.


What Causes Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's is a disease of the central nervous system caused by the loss of dopamine producing cells in the brain. However, exactly why dopamine-producing cells become lost is unclear. Research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may be responsible. How these two factors interact varies from person to person. It is also unclear why some people develop the disease but not others.

Genetic Causes

It is very rare for Parkinson's to be passed from parent to child. However, in recent years a number of cases have been identified in which Parkinson's seems to be at least partly genetic. In these cases, a mutated gene appears to have been passed from one generation to the next and Parkinson's has developed in a number of people in the same family.

Genes are segments of the molecule DNA within the nucleus of cells that pass characteristics from parents to their offspring. Scientists believe certain genes may play a role in the genetic causes of Parkinson's. These genes are an important focus for research. Increased understanding of how such genes may affect the underlying risk, onset and progression of Parkinson's could be important for future treatments.

Environmental Causes

Some evidence suggests that environmental factors including toxic chemicals, viruses, bacteria and heavy metals may cause dopamine-producing neurons to die, leading to the development of Parkinson's. In particular, there has been much speculation about the link between herbicides and pesticides and the development of Parkinson's.

Combined Causes

Scientists currently believe that in most cases, genetic and environmental factors interact to cause Parkinson's disease. The extent to which each factor is involved varies from person to person. Unfortunately, it is generally impossible to find out exactly what caused a person to develop Parkinson's. While many people with Parkinson's report one or more family members with the disease, it is not clear if one or several genes are the cause.

Risk Factors

The single biggest risk factor for Parkinson's is age. Most people are over 60 when they develop the condition. However, one in 20 are under 40 with men having a slightly higher risk then woman. There are over one million people with Parkinson's and over 60,000 are diagnosed each year.

A number of studies have highlighted factors that are linked to either greater or lesser risks of Parkinson's. For example, severe head injuries have been associated with higher risk for the disease. According to Dr, Barbara Changizi, a neurologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, research in 2013 found that people with head trauma that resulted in a concussion were 57% more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than people that never experienced such head trauma.

Head injuries can cause inflammation in the brain which may lead to changes in cells and brain structure that contribute to Parkinson's. Injuries can damage the part of the brain that contains dopamine-producing cells called substantia nigra and can lead to Parkinson's.


I know that this is a lot of information and can be confusing. The best part is that God helps me through this journey. I can read about Parkinson's all day and not know what to take in, what to be worried about and what direction I need to go. Then I realized I just need to pray and God will do the rest. He will give me the direction I need as I make my way through "My Journey."

Prayer Warriors and Prayer requests:

hamiltonron22@gmail.com

Philippians 2:3

 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourself.

Sweet Surrender

Lost and alone on some forgotten highway

Traveled by many, remembered by few

As I lay there that night in bed I had many things running through my mind. Questions about life, concerns about the future and worries for my family. About 2:00 in the morning I got an old John Denver song stuck in my head. As I tossed and turned I could not help but wonder "Why this song of all songs?" It is true that at that moment I felt a little lost and confused and maybe a little forgotten. Then I remembered that others had traveled this road before me so there must be answers out there so I got up and cranked up google.

Lookin' for something that I can believe in

Lookin' for something that I'd like to do with my life

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

I started studying and found that there are a million sites and each has its own information and thoughts about Parkinson's disease. This is what I did find that was consistent about Parkinson's. First and foremost, All Parkinson's patients are not the same. Each experiences different symptoms. Some at different times some all at the same time. VERY IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER!!!!!!

Walking 

Persons with Parkinson's Disease tend to have a difficult time with walking. Some stumble and have a difficult time with starting and stopping procedures in their walk. Others experience stiff and rigid leg movement. Most Parkinson patients experience a shuffle while walking and their limbs may not swing while moving. Navigating obstacles can prove very difficult and many Parkinson patients experience leg cramping.

I have experienced all of these at one point or another. When I first met the neurologist he first mentioned my shuffling. Since my diagnosis I have experienced the stiff rigid walking. My legs get weak and I stumble several times a day.

A few weeks ago we were on a trip to San Francisco I woke up at about 5:30 in the morning with an awful leg cramp. I was trying not wake Krishna up but after several minutes I was pounding on the bed in pain. I was pointing my toe towards my chin like I learned when I got leg cramps playing ball but nothing was working. 

Kris jumped up and started rubbing my leg but it was like the cramp would move from one spot to another. First it was in my leg and then in my foot. Then it was in my calf and then in my shin. I was pounding on the bed and I could not help but yell a few times. We were in a hotel so I can only imagine what the people in the next room thought.

Tremors

Most commonly in the arms, hands and legs. They may start with the patient rubbing their fingers together. At times the trembling is visible at times it may not be. Trembling may surface in the face and jaw. In the early stages it can be localized to one side of the body. I have the trembling in my arms and legs. I can sometimes hide it by putting my hands in my coat pocket or crossing my arms. At other times it is easy to hide by tapping my arms like I am tapping to music.

 Brady Kinesia

This can include a stone expression or a masked look on the face of the Parkinson's patient. Like that of a blank stare.  One of my friends asked me one day if I was alright and I said yes of course. She said you look mad. I was really surprised because I was in a really good mood. The next day I asked my doctor if my medicine could make me look mad and he said no but Parkinson's can. Its called Stone Face or Parkinson's Face. I thought he was kidding me. 

Balance and Control

See walking

Motor Skill Loss

Difficulty holding objects.

This is me. My fine motor skills have been a challenge since my Chiari and now it can really be a challenge. I struggle to tie my shoes, my ties and buttoning my shirts.

Depression

I do not suffer from depression. WHY? Because I am blessed.

Penmanship

Writing becomes small and messy. If you think that is bad you should see me try to type.

Voice

Softening of voice and raspy. Poor word enunciation.

I am not allowed to sing solo in church!

Memory

Mild. 1 in 4 suffer from dementia. Many suffer from some sort of memory loss.

As I have said I have some loss but this has really improved for me through medication. 

Other Symptoms 

Includes loss of smell, trouble sleeping, dizziness and hunching over.

So what do I do? I leave it in Gods hands. As I returned to bed I thought I would never sleep.Here I had all this information and my mind was buzzing. Then I remembered. that the Bible says we need to leave it in God's hands and wait, he will take care of everything.

Psalms 37:7

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him

Doesn't that bring you comfort? I mean really knowing that God loves you so much he just wants you to wait and trust him. Anytime I try to control my life I mess it up. Don't we all? The finances, the relationships and dreams we have. But when we share our needs about our finances and we ask God to mend our relationships and to carry us to our dreams the end results is always better then what we had hoped for. 

As I fell asleep I could hear John Denver

Tomorrow is open right now it seems to be more than enough 
To just be here today and 
I don't know where I am going I'm not sure where I've been
There's a spirit that guides me, a light that shines for me
if my life is worth livin', I don't need to see the end

Sweet Sweet Surrender

God is carrying my burdens and God is in control of my disease and God is in control of my relationships. God gets me through all the daily struggles and he is with us as we make our way through this life and when we move on we will forever celebrate his glory in the next life. Its all part of the plan and its all part of "My Journey."