Every 9 minutes someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
That was the case for my Granddaddy, Albert LeBron Patterson, in May of 2015. PD is neurodegenerative brain disorder. There is currently no cure.
Granddaddy was a true “caregiver” in the sense that he put others before himself and truly lived out his belief of being the hands and feet of Christ. If he wasn’t working with his hands he was using his mouth to give you an “earful”. He always had a story or joke to tell.
Years before his diagnosis, his quality of life was great as an elderly man and he was managing his symptoms without the official diagnosis. 10-15% of Parkinson’s cases are caused by genetics. My Granddaddy’s father, had PD, along with his five uncles, and his grandfather as well.
PD looks different in every patient. Symptoms present and progress at different rates. The biggest changes in Granddaddy were his movements and speech. He gradually turned into someone I no longer recognized. Each visit with him turned into shorter conversations and lingering questions for me. On good days, his eyes would still sparkle and I would get a glimpse of the first man I ever loved. While PD may have stolen his voice and mobility, underneath it all HE was still there.
On March 16th, 2020 at 86 years old, Granddaddy’s Parkinson’s journey ended and his faith became his sight. There isn’t a day that goes by where he isn’t on my mind or I don’t miss him. I find great comfort in knowing that he didn’t have to live through the COVID-19 pandemic and that he is no longer suffering. I find motivation to continue research and to educate others on PD for the 7-10 million people living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones.
A cure is needed for this terrible disease. It is not easy for ANYONE involved. In honor of Granddaddy, I have formed a team with Parkinson’s Revolution.
>
>
>
Auburn-Opelika Moms is partnering with Parkinson’s Foundation for the month of April as our philanthropy spotlight to support their mission. April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. The Parkinson’s Foundation provides support and resources that help people with Parkinson’s as well as their care partners to learn more about PD.
For more information on Parkinson’s join Taylor on our social media platforms every Friday in April for additional information on PD and ways you can get involved.
