~ Meg Bernard; Small Girl with Parkinson’s.

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2015 was my 5th PD-versary; the 5th anniversary of the day I received my official diagnosis of Parkinson disease. Although I was 33 at the time, now that we know what we are looking for, my symptoms can be traced back as far as age 19.

My PD-versary is a special day that I celebrate, in private, every year…though, can I really call something private when I excitedly proclaim it to my children the moment I see them (or anyone else for that matter); while also making and wearing a glitter glue “announcement”; pinning to myself like a badge of honour?…perhaps the best I can do is call it “mostly private” (thank you “Princess Bride”).

Last year, one of my small/tall daughters asked me a very insightful question, “Mom, why do you celebrate sad things?” My explanation was simple…I am not celebrating the fact that I HAVE Parkinson’s; I am celebrating the fact that I LIVE with Parkinson’s.

By celebrating the passing of another year, I am choosing to celebrate the beautiful life I have decided to live…Parkinson’s just comes along for the ride. As I reflect on the year behind me; though, without doubt, one of the most challenging of my life; I can truly say that I have never been more grateful or felt so blessed.

“WE ARE ALL given the gift of a new day simply by waking up. It’s up to us to find a way to celebrate it, share it, and enhance it.
“Lift hearts, lift spirits, rise above, find joy and live! In many cases things haven’t turned out the way we planned…but I can’t get rid of this feeling that the best is yet to come!” ~ SGwPD

~ With much love….