I am 30 years old. I am afraid of what the doctors are going to tell me about whats been happening. I started out just having panic attacks now my hand cant stop moving and just the other day i fell in the middle of the street because all of a sudden i couldnt walk.
I have finally been refered to a neurologist. I am scared because i am married with a 9 month old son and mortage to pay. My family relys on me and i am real scared that they might tell me i have YOPD.
Wondering if someone can tell me what to expect?
how will my life change? will i lose my job?
how will my day to day life change as the years go on? will i have problem collecting disablity?
just feel lost even though i havent been diagnosed yet but i think it is enevitable. Any adivse anyone can give me would be greatly appreaciated.
thanks you

Hi Arnett,

I just found this site today. I hope things haven't been too hard on you since you wrote this email. I don't really know if I can help cause the disease affects people differently. All I can say is that from my experience my life has changed relatively little since I was diagnosed 7 years ago. Now I might be a normal or not normal patient, but when I was diagnosed I like you thought it was the beginning of the end. Try not to read every thing about the disease. It will make you depressed. I have also been on paxil for the last 5 years and it has helped me considerably with the anxiety. If I can be of any help let me know
Marylou

Getting dx with PD was the most stressful and frightening experiences in my life. I broke down crying at my neurologist's office. I told him, "what about all my dreams?" He responded, "Your job is to live you dreams. My job is to get you there." No matter what the dx, be assured there are people out there who care and will support you through your journey. It it is PD, you might be angry, frustrated, scared out of your mind and worried about the future. This is all normal. As a father of two young children I can relate to your life situation. Hope you post again to let us know how you made out. We will be listening.

Ameoba dx 2004