Thank you, Parkinson's nurses
On International Nurses' Day, we asked: How has your Parkinson's nurse helped you? And dozens of you sent in your stories and messages of grateful thanks. We share just a few of them here.
Helping us live better
"My Parkinson’s nurse is an absolute star who I can rely on 100%. When I was struggling with anxiety she was sympathetic, encouraging and supportive.
"A few years ago my symptoms were so bad that I could hardly walk across the room to answer the door. I had an appointment with my nurse and she changed my medication. This helped me so much that a few days later I went for a 3 mile walk." - Graham
"Towards the end of last year I started experiencing hallucinations and illusions which gradually got worse and worse until I was having them every day.
"The Parkinson's nurses were absolutely brilliant. They got me a quick referral to a neurologist and discussed how we could change my medication to isolate the cause - which after a number of weeks, we did.
"I can't thank them enough." - Adrian
The first day we met our nurses, we finally saw hope. They were both incredibly positive and passionate about what they did. They made our relative feel so supported and for the first time in a long time we saw them smile. - Zareen
Supporting our mental health
"Our Parkinson's nurse is so positive - her message is: 'You can do it, but you might have to learn to do it a different way.'
"She makes everything seem possible and positive while understanding the difficulties. She understands that the diagnosis affects the whole family, not just the person with Parkinson's.
"We always come away from the appointments feeling: ‘We’ve got this.'" - Kay
"My husband has had Parkinson's for 25 years and now has dementia. I just wanted to say thank you to all the incredible Parkinson’s nurses for all the valuable work you do.
"You make a very stressful situation easier and knowing you are there is so important. Thank you." - Judith
"Our 2 Parkinson's nurses know everything and are so professional. But what makes them so special is their ability to listen, their endless compassion and fantastic sense of humour.
"They really have helped us get through some tough times over the past few years. We actually couldn't have got through everything without them!" - Anon
Thank you for your tireless commitment, for the care you provide, and for the difference you make. You are deeply appreciated. - Mark
They always have time
"Whenever I see my Parkinson’s nurse I never feel rushed. She has given me so much help and encouragement on so many different aspects of the condition. It’s so comforting to know that she is there if I need her." - Patricia
"My Parkinson’s nurses are literally a lifeline. I know I can contact them if I am unsure or worried about anything at all and they will always respond with advice, reassurance and support. I feel very lucky to have them." - Clare
Dad's nurse has patiently listened each time to his latest worrying symptom, and made tweaks to his medicines that have helped him manage the disease better. Parkinson's nurses rock! - Louis
We are funding more Parkinson's nurses
Thousands of people with Parkinson's don't have access to health specialists they desperately need to live well with the condition. Our Nurse Appeal is raising money to create more specialist roles.