I recently discovered this post on the Young Parkinson's Association website. It was written in response to a question about how to remain positive and upbeat. While addressing a question from a person with young-onset PD concerning optimism and employment, it applies to all struggling with diagnosis. You can read the full post by "rose of his heart" here.
 
I particularly liked the poster's "humble advice":

• feel what you feel and express it
• take action where possible to solve the practical issues
• take the best care of yourself possible
• talk as much as you need to (friends, clergy, therapists)
• envision how, given the new PD reality, you would like your life to be, and
• GO FOR IT!
  

It's as proven fact that doing something for someone else will boost your own optimism and outlook. Unfortunately for Louisville, the devastating flood the other week provides ample opportunities to give to others.
 
If you are able to help with flood clean-up, contact Metro United Way at 292-6107 or visit them online.

Metro Animal Services needs donations and supplies. To see a list of needs, click here.

The Louisville Free Public Library was especially hard hit. They have established a special fund to assist with flood damage. Donations to the Flood Relief Fund can be sent to the Library Foundation, 301 York Street, Louisville KY 40203, attn: FLOOD RELIEF.

Finally, here's something non-flood-related you can do to help as you sort through your fall and winter wardrobes. Take a look and see what nice ladies' items you might donate to PSCKY! PSCKY is entering a partnership with Fleur de Leigh's, a local consignment shop. They will put select clothing, shoes, purses and artwork on consignment on PSCKY's behalf, and the proceeds will go to support PSCKY's programs and services. (See their Charity page for more info; we're not listed yet, but we will be soon!) We'll send out more information about this in the next couple of weeks.

If you are a care partner of someone with PD, you might be interested in attending the Thursday, August 20th meeting of the Southeast Christian Church Alzheimer's Caregivers Group (1pm in FH 111, around to the right of the lower Fellowship Hall). The meeting will focus on the resources and services offered by KIPDA,our agency on aging. Speaker Vicki Polio will discuss help with respite care, home care, and adult day care, as well as general care partner counsel and money management advice related to care-giving. For more information about the Alzheimer's Caregiver's group, email Sarah Garwood (sarahg9g@earthlink.net).

And, if the person you love is suffering from dementia, you might find the August 28th "Snack N Learn" helpful (10-11am at Floyd Memorial Hospital in New Albany): the program covers "Basics of Dementia" and includes brain-healthy snacks. You must pre-register by calling 451-4266 or 800-272-3900.

Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home is sponsoring a free luncheon along with a terrific talk by local attorney Buddy Naber. Mr. Naber will discuss issues of estate planning, wills and living wills. Ratterman will discuss issues on the benefits of pre-planning, Veteran's Benefits and other estate planning issues.

PLACE: John E's Restaurant (3708 Bardstown Rd)
DATE: Wednesday, August 19th
TIME: 11 a.m.
COST: FREE!

You must RSVP to the event. Call Janet Moore at 459-3800.

Health care reform, or--perhaps more accurately--health insurance reform is a hot topic of late, and no matter what your political leanings might be, this article by Robin Elliott (Executive Director of the Parkinson's Disease Foundation), contains some interesting reflections on the needs of people living with PD.

Those of you who've gotten to know our Executive Director, Jinn, a bit will know that she's quite the bookworm. This week, Jinn recommends a new non-fiction book by David Bainbridge: "Beyond the Zonules of Zinn: a fantastic journey through your brain." Jinn writes, "This is, indeed, a FANTASTIC journey through the brain. Easy-to-read but chock-full of excellent information. I leafed right to pages 174-178 to read Bainbridge's reflections on PD, including his take on embryonic stem cell treatment. Then it was back to the start to see how our brains develop, and the wonderful things they do. HIGHLY recommended."

Monday, August 17th, 6:30pm: Shelbyville "Moving On" Exercise Group (Jewish Hospital Shelbyville Community Room (rear of hospital))

Tuesday, August 18th, 6:30pm: Shelbyville Support Group (topic: LSVT Big Program)

Wednesday, August 19th, 4:30pm: Scott County Support Group (Scott Memorial Hospital, Conference Room A, 1471 N Gardner Ave; 812.416.1054)

Wednesday, August 19th, 6pm: South Support Group (topic: LSVT Big Program) St. Mary's Hospital, Resource Center/Kyle Pratt Room; 1850 Bluegrass Ave

Friday, August 21st, 10am-2pm: PSCKY's Monthly Open House. Stop by our offices in the old Paul Semonin building (4912 US Hwy 42, Ste 105) to check out the very latest books, DVDs and resource materials on PD, and take some time to chat with our staff about what's going on in your life. We really LOVE to have people come and visit, so please DO stop in! Call us at 426.0888 if you need directions.