I have never been on a train before. When you spend the last three decades of your life fighting just to exist, traveling is usually put on the back burner. But here I am, with a glass of wine and looking out the window of the Amtrak going 110 mph. With the beautiful scenery of Rhode Island zipping by, I am tapping away on my laptop feeling like the luckiest gal on the planet. The landscape is incredible. I consider myself to be a pretty skilled wordsmith, but I am devoid of colorful adjectives…. I can’t even attempt to put you in my shoes.
So why am I on this wonderful east coast adventure? I’m on my way to New York City’s annual Parkinson’s Unity Walk, which is one of the largest Parkinson’s community events in our Country. Everyday, I look for ways to connect with people in the Parkinson’s community. I wish I could say that this is a completely selfless act, but the truth is I get much fulfillment from meeting new Parkies and others along my adventures. Some people ask me, “Is it difficult to work with people who are struggling with medical issues everyday? It seems like it could be depressing.” It is actually the opposite.
When I feel drained, depressed or unmotivated, I push my challenges aside and realize that I am not alone. Being active in the Parkinson’s community has given me the chance to hear many tales of love and inspiration. Don’t underestimate the power of sharing your story. Find events in your area and get involved, because we are stronger in numbers.
I realize this comment is eight years late, but what the heck! Besides, I only joined the parky (I spell it different) family four years ago (2018). I write my story by involving myself and volunteering at Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) https://www.parkinsonsresources.org/.
I love the exercise classes with Nancy Barlow and have persuaded PRO Management to start a cycling community within PRO called PeDal Support https://www.facebook.com/groups/3023124567974062. After a two-year pandemic delay, we are having our first official PeDal Support ride on July 30, 2022 on the Bank-Vernonia Trail! Can’t wait! It will be refreshing and fun! Come join us!
First of all I would like to say excellent
blog! I had a quick question in which I’d like to ask
if you don’t mind. I was curious to know how you center yourself and clear your mind before writing.
I have had a hard time clearing my mind in getting my ideas out there.
I do take pleasure in writing but it just seems like the first 10
to 15 minutes are usually wasted just trying to figure out how to begin. Any suggestions or hints?
Thanks!
I write when I am inspired. I never schedule a time to write, because then it feels forced. If my mind is cluttered and I can’t seem to focus, I incorporate that into my blogging. Example being when I regress and talk about Fro Yo and mythical creatures! It not only lets my readers come along for the journey of my life, but it also makes for great reading! Good Luck!
So happy that you got to make this train trip. I love riding the train
Allison,
We were so glad you were able to start your journey, by attending the Boston Marathon and speaking at our Boston area Parkinson support group. We just we could have had more time with you. The conversations and Q&A could have gone on much longer. We hope you can come back again and enjoy some more of our local culture and meet with us again. We really enjoyed our brief time with you.
So glad you were able to share with the Parkie community. It is so interesting and exciting to meet new people and find common interests.