Parkinson’s Disease and Me

About the Book

Parkinson’s Disease and Me: Walking the Path 2nd Edition was originally published in 2003. Many changes have occurred since then, and I have changed as a person and as a writer. I revised this book and added five new chapters in June 2012. I also made changes and additions to the original book. The book takes you on my journey before I was diagnosed with young onset Parkinson’s disease almost twenty years ago. It was obvious something was wrong, but Parkinson’s disease? That was not on anyone’s radar screen. The book continues with my diagnosis and adjustment (actually, at first it was nonadjustment). I have found Parkinson’s disease (PD) does not make one immune to the vagaries of life. A personal tragedy is included in the book. I found it could not be left out because of the profound manner in which it affected me. However, I stick to my belief of one’s right to privacy and only give the pertinent points. Readers may feel some of the material in this book is dated. However, that material is best categorized as historical. We cannot successfully move forward unless we know and learn from where we have been.

About the Author

Patricia Lightner spent the last 15 years advocating for better treatments and ultimately a cure for Parkinson’s disease. She informed her elected officials in her hometown and in Washington, D.C. of the needs of the Parkinson’s community. She also supports increases in medical research funds. Patricia Is the author of two other books, also available in paperback, JOEY AND PARKER: A TAIL OF TWO CATS and JUST GIVE IT SOME THOUGHT:EVERYDAY REFLECTIONS.