Imagine coming to this country over 50 years ago not knowing anyone, or able to speak English, kind of cool huh? Well my father wanted a better life for himself and brothers. After he arrived here he did what anyone else needs to do to survive. He learned the language, went to college and found himself a long lasting career. During the time of getting his "new" life together he met a lady, got married and had 4 kids. In his eyes he was living the American dream. Its what he came here for.
A few years before retirement he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, yes the same disease that Michael J Fox has had for many years. The last few years have been pretty hard on him. Not only has his shakes gotten worse but Doctor's have also upped his meds in the last year. So yeah in his retirement instead of golfing like he loves and doing yard work, he sits in the family room most of the day or in his bed sleeping. His slurring has got worse, has to be helped up or helped in car, has started falling and so on. Most of the time its hard to understand him because he is so doped from all the medication.
A little over a year ago a family member found out about a procedure they can do to basically stop the shaking and huge dosages of medication. Sure there are pro's and con's to the surgery as is in any other surgery you have done. After talking to his doctor he became a patient they would study to see if he would be able to have the surgery. Well a little over a month ago he was told he could have the surgery and it would be paid for, this surgery is $80,000. The surgery is called DBS and you can read about it here if your interested. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/deep_brain_stimulation/deep_brain_stimulation.htm
It will be a few surgeries and some long roads ahead. I did not write this to act like my father is more special than anyone else that has this disease, or in anyway more deserving. I watched a video of the procedure and it was amazing. The advances in the medical field are just mind boggling. Hopefully one day they will find a cure for everything bad out there.
Pops I love you man I know you will get through this.
-Tazman
Hello Robert, we have not spoken in a while, and when I saw this link on a post of someone we have in common, I thought I'd check it out. I am aware of this blog acct, as I been on it a few times before. All I can say is wow! What a difference from the last time I was on. I don't ever remember seeing this side of you. This is awesome. I am so glad to know your father will be getting the treatment he needs to help him.
ReplyDeleteHe will be in my prayers. I hope things are going well for you. Keep up the good work here.
Take care Robert. ~Cheryl Wilson~