Parkinson's Diseas -another reason to be on the bike

[IFjane]

My father died of Parkinson's Disease in 2002. He had been exhibiting some symptoms for years (undiagnosed until 5 years prior to his death) & I am sure that he would have declined much more rapidly had he known earlier. He was an active sailor & the only thing that made him stop boating was his balance. He was afraid he would fall in while walking around on the boat so he quit....and went downhill from there.

I have seen Davis Phinney at races in Colorado and the man is an inspiration. He and his wife, Connie, have produced a super cyclist in thier son, Taylor, too.

[ChainsOflove]

My mother died of Parkinson's December 30, 2006. She was sick for 15 years and broke her neck at the end. It was a horrible death.

She was never active in her life, and I wonder how much it would have helped her.

[annie]

My dad was diagnosed with Parkinsons at age 52. He had to retire at 55. He is now 75 and living in a nursing home. He's been on drugs for PD for over 20 years. He is not in good shape now. However, he was a very active person, hiking, biking, fishing, when he was younger. When I think of how long he's been suffering from this condition, and how long he lived a semi-normal life, I do give credit to his active lifestyle for keeping him as well as possible for as long as possible. I know his doctors have always said he is in better shape than many others who've had this for the same amount of time. It is very inspiring to read about people who've done well in spite of PD, especially those whom bicycling has helped. Keep riding, ladies! Who knows what the benefits could be?

Annie