Yes. People think I am lazy, drunk or stupid (or all 3). No one has any idea how much effort it takes for me to accomplish the few things I manage to get done & are disgusted that I don't get more done. I am very alone with no one to really turn to for friendship or for help. I need real people as friends not just cyber strangers who occasionally might respond to something I took hours to write.

Every single day everyone who visits this site, visits me, and vice versa. ❤️ for everyone.

Elaine, I'm so sorry you are going through this. Thank you for sharing with us. You are not alone but I understand why you feel that way.
I'm sure you and your doc is working with you and a speech therapist on the speaking issues, It is just another thing you have to do but if you can get to the therapy, it really can help.
Do you have friends or family about how PD makes you feel? I didn't want to be a complainer or a burden so I kept it in my head and slowly withdrew from everyone. No one was avoiding me, I was staying away because I didn't want to have to explain myself or be embarrassed. PD stinks and it is easy to just stay away from others so they don't notice the changes and I am not embarrassed. One day I realized I could change this thinking and my friends and family love me changes and all. The best part is, I'm smiling and even laughing again. I hope your journey takes you down the path of living with life's changes.
Your are still the wonderful Elaine and with a little support and kindness to yourself, your life will still be different but it can be a different kind of good.
I'm keeping you in my prayers. I hope you find your smile today.
My dog barked at me recently when I laughed because it had been so long since she heard that sound.
You are in my prayers and not alone my friend, you are part of a community and you have a beautiful smile in my eyes.
Maria

YES, I do feel left out because I am not the same person as I used to be. I lost my witty personality and I very seldom laugh. i talk so low and softly that people have difficulty hearing what I have to say and always ask me to repeat myself. Plus I have a hard time getting out what i want to say.😩

@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member - are there any in-person support groups near you? Could you do a virtual support group over the phone? Some of the online Parkinson's foundations have monthly online meetings. I understand the desire for in-person interaction. Forums are helpful, but not the same as back and forth conversations in person.

Mentioned Users

A MyParki...