Newly diagnosed - Roddy Lee's story
Roddy Lee describes below his approach to
life and the support he has received since his
Parkinson's diagnosis in 2007.
Diagnosis
 I was first diagnosed with
Parkinson's disease in September 2007, although it was believed I
had probably had the disease for some time beforehand, as I had
been experiencing involuntary tremor symptoms from the start of the
year.
Approach to life
Parkinson's disease, to date, has had no particular impact on my
life or the manner in which I live it, and I am determined to
continue leading as normal a life as possible going forward.
I have always had a stoical, philosophical "can do" approach to
life and my immediate reaction to learning I had Parkinson's was
determination to lead a normal life and to help others with the
condition who are not as fortunate as myself. Like life itself,
there are always others worse off than you and more deserving of
your, and others peoples' help.
Support received
My family, friends, work colleagues, consultant neurologist, GP
and Parkinson's nurse have all been there for me and have been very
encouraging and supportive.
In particular, my Parkinson's nurse has been very helpful in
identifying the most appropriate medication and dosage strength as
I found it difficult, initially, to adjust to my medication.
Being open and talking about Parkinson's disease has helped
friends come to terms with my circumstances and has made me
determined, for all of them and myself, to lead a normal life to
the full, both now and in the future.
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