April 2006 is a great month for people with Parkinson’s. Around the world, some have dubbed it Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Next week is also Parkinson’s Awareness Week. Some cities have hosted Parkinson’s Awareness Days during the month. People around the world will learn more about a significant part of your life. They may read a newspaper article, or see a television news story about Parkinson’s or even attend an event with a Parkinson’s emphasis. It will help them understand your battle, and speak the language of the condition a little more. These efforts will make life better for the PD community, and attract resources to the science that will ease and cure PD.
One year, when I was a kid, our family was celebrating Mother’s Day. I was probably a little envious that I wasn’t getting presents that day. I selfishly asked, in that complaining tone, “When is kid’s day?” My wise mother quickly shot back, “Every day is kid’s day!” Yes, most of us had some pretty nice privileges when we were kids. I recall a few less worries. Parents and teachers also allotted us kids plenty of time for jump rope, baseball, hopscotch, and bike riding.
For PWPs, their caregivers and their families, every day is Parkinson’s Day. I wish it had perks like Mother’s Day or ‘Kid’s Day.’ Parkinson’s Day (or Week or Month) for now, is a solemn observation and public education event. Now we ask, when is it going to be the other “Parkinson’s Day?” The one where it changes from solemn to celebration? This time, I don’t feel so selfish asking.
