Caregivers:: please don't pamper us - Parkinson's Disease Message Board

Bruce · 07-19-2003, 03:35 PM

What i mean by that is most handicaped people are capable of doing many things for ourselves, even though it might take longer. It is very gratifying to accomplsh something we didn't think was possible.

Even though i can't walk across the room and don't have much muscle strength or stamina. i hsve successuly grown a garden and mow about 2-3 aceres of lawn.

How do i do that. I think and plan before starting a project, and figure out the easiest way to do somthing.

Their is nothing bettet for my attiude to do something no one thought possible.

Of course, people open doors for me which is okay, but don't let your love for mom or dad make you do everything for them. It's easy for the pwp to give in and sit back and let you wait on us, but once we lose the ability to perform a task, it is lost forever.

Bruce

Googy · 07-19-2003, 08:33 PM

How right you are Bruce.You over come so much.

Googy

jennifer44 · 07-20-2003, 03:54 PM

Bruce, I agree with you completely. My father has had PD for quite a while now and my mom is very good about encouraging my dad to get out and do work in the yard, garage, etc. I can't even imagine the frustration that he feels when he can't do certain projects that would have been easy for him before (fixing the sink, cutting the grass, etc.) But when he does get out and do things that he can still do, he seems to feel better. I really admire the strength that both of my parents have. My dad for coping with all of the things that come with this disease. And my mom for thinking things through and doing what's best for my dad even though it hurts her so bad to see him struggling.

Bruce · 07-21-2003, 11:28 AM

Jennifer, accomplishing simple tasks such as the raised garden plots that noone believed i could do is like winning the super bowl. You can't imagine the emotional high that gives me.

My memory is not so good, do forgive me if i repeat my self. I recently had flat tires on my electric scooters and asked my neighbors to help me. I gave it a lot of thought and come up with and idea on how to change the tire. I gathered three thick books and learned the easiest method to lift the scooter. I rolled the scooter onto two books, and easily mounted the tire. I used a socket wrench which made it easier to tighten the nut.

My mind doesn't work to fast, but the sense of accomplshment made me feel better than any drug.

The fatigue won't go away, but with a little thought and lots of patience, your dad can do many things. It just takes a little longer.

Bruce

jennifer44 · 07-21-2003, 06:00 PM

Bruce,

You are definitely an amazing person. I really admire your spirit and your attitude.

Thank you for the information regarding the other topics I've asked about as well. You have a lot of knowledge that you use to help other people.

Thank you so much!

Your garden sounds beautiful.