I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, within days of my 70 birthday. In the summer of 2024 I packed us for a move to Cheyenne and unpacked us when we got here. I arranged a new home without issues. In October I was walking a mile a day. In late November I started falling. In the early summer of 2025 (the worst year of my life) I was using a cane but really needed a rollator. By fall I was able to use the rollator but I could not stand or walk even a couple feet without assistance. That was a low point . As my husband and caregiver started to take over responsibilities that I have handled throughout our 53 years of marriage, the finances, the cooking, baking, I felt that Parkinson’s had taken my life away.

To make a long story short God and I had a talk and I resolved not to let go. I was still in control of my attitude, if not my body. With help from God, a mental health provider, a new motion disorder specialist and a physical therapist, I got stronger. There are still days that I cry but I can settle myself and get through it. I still use the rollator and can only stand for a few seconds but I try to remain as active as I can. I go to the gym at least twice a week and exercise with You Tube on the other days.

I have a need to be needed. There are not a lot of opportunities for a non-mobile person to volunteer. Being a mentor is one way that I might help others deal with this nasty disease. As a mentor I will talk about God and how He gets me through the day and events that cause anxiety. I won’t try to convert you but I believe that God is directing me to help if I can. I will also cry. Don’t be alarmed. I tear up at any sad or glad occasion, whether I am part of it or not. I’m blaming Parkinson’s for that. So I adapt.
I can listen. I can share my experiences. I can laugh and cry with you

If