My life just like yours is filled with countless stories, some of which leave an indelible mark on our hearts. One of mine is the story of a remarkable individual, Peter, whose spirit and determination continue to inspire me till today.
Peter was not just any patient; he was a friend, an example of resilience, and a firm spirit. Diagnosed with Parkinson's, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor system, Peter never stopped. Symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement were a part of his daily life. he was one of the lucky ones who were treated with a Deep Brain Stimulator. But what set Peter up and defined him was his spirit and golden heart.
Despite the challenges that Parkinson's brought into his life on top of spinal fracture and lost mobility, Peter never let it define him. He was gentle, always looking out for others, especially his beloved wife. His determination and naught nature was evident in the little things, like his relentless efforts to reach the sweets cabinet in the kitchen. It was a testament to his spirit, even if it once led to a fall and a subsequent hospital admission. But that was Peter for you – always pushing boundaries, always striving for more, and never giving up.
The Power of Motivation and Participation
Peter's journey always reminds me how important is patient motivation and participation, especially when dealing with chronic conditions like Parkinson's. Peter's desire to regain mobility, not just for himself but to support his wife, for her to not struggle while supporting him. And there was one more reason - In secret, he told me he would like to see one more time Albion playing. Peter loved Albion Football Club and was passionate about tennis.
One of his rehab goals we set up was the ability to climb stairs and walk safely sideways in narrow spaces. The ultimate goal was to go and see a football match and we did it. We went to see Albion as soon as he reached these abilities to be able safely sit on the tribunes not to be wheeled in.
Exercise played a crucial role in Peter's treatment plan. There is strong evidence behind exercises. Exercise and physical activities are recommended for everyday Parkinson's patients because it has been shown to improve mobility, balance, flexibility, and overall quality of life. Regular exercise can increase flexibility and range of motion, combatting the stiffness and rigidity that Parkinson's often brings. It can also enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls – a challenge Peter knew all too well.
Furthermore, exercise boosts cardiovascular fitness, promoting heart health and warding off related conditions. But perhaps most importantly, it uplifts the mood and mental health. With his ever-present smile and infectious optimism (most of the time), Peter was a living example to this.
There's also emerging evidence suggesting that exercise might slow down the progression of Parkinson's by elevating certain neuroprotective chemicals in the brain. This gives hope to countless patients and their families, emphasizing the importance of staying active and engaged.
Why We Work with Parkinson's Patients
Working with patients like Peter is a privilege and a responsibility. As healthcare professionals, our role is not just to treat but to inspire, motivate, listen, and support.
Peter's story shows me again the difference one individual can make. His journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, give me the strength to support him in battling chronic conditions like Parkinson's, stroke, or MS. It underscores the importance of patient participation, motivation, and the transformative power of exercise as well as the responsible approach from healthcare professionals. If everything is in place it works - simple!!
In loving memory of Peter – a true Parkinson's Warrior, an inspiration, chess partner, West Bromwich Albion FC fan, and notorious smiler.
Here are some references that support the benefits of exercise for Parkinson's disease:
Shulman LM, Katzel LI, Ivey FM, et al. Sustained exercise program, but not home-based activity, improves function in Parkinsonian patients: a randomized trial. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2013;27(8):742-752. doi:10.1177/1545968313496324
Alberts JL, Linder SM, Penko AL, et al. It is not about the bike, it is about the pedaling: forced exercise and Parkinson's disease. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2011;39(4):177-186. doi:10.1097/JES.0b013e31822f16c1
Ahlskog JE. Does vigorous exercise have a neuroprotective effect in Parkinson disease? Neurology. 2011;77(3):288-294. doi:10.1212/WNL.0b013e3182270ece
Ellis T, Cavanaugh JT, Earhart GM, et al. Factors associated with exercise behavior in people with Parkinson disease. Phys Ther. 2011;91(12):1838-1848. doi:10.2522/ptj.20100393
Nieuwboer A, Kwakkel G, Rochester L, et al. Cueing training in the home improves gait-related mobility in Parkinson's disease: the RESCUE trial. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2007;78(2):134-140. doi:10.1136/jnnp.200X.097923
Comments