The word ‘cure’ is a volatile word in the PD community. Many of the fantastic organizations such as the Michael J. Fox Foundation, Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, and the American Parkinson’s Disease Association use it boldly. They are passionate about finding a cure.
There is a contrast when you talk with physicians and scientists involved in finding the cure. They often talk about ‘slowing down the progression’ of the condition. Many of them also discuss strategies that treat the symptoms. Sometimes it appears they are careful not to use the word 'cure.' My Parkinson’s Info is not critical of this stance. We realize physicians and researchers will use the word cure liberally when the breakthrough comes.
Naturally, we were pleasantly surprised to hear some of the quotes from Dr. Ray L. Watts, where he speculated about a cure. Dr. Watts is a physician and preeminent Parkinson’s disease researcher. In this article published in The Birmingham News, you can sense how badly Dr. Watts wants to find a cure for Parkinson’s. Admittedly, while he uses the word ‘cure’, he still couples it with words like ‘slow’ and ‘reverse.’ That is part of being a responsible scientist.
Enthusiastic Biker with PD Hoping to pedal with Lance Armstrong in Iowa
For the last 33 years, bikers have gathered in Iowa to participate in the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa or RAGBRI. This year famous bicyclist Lance Armstrong is going to participate, and it is fueling the popularity of the event.
Jim Wetherell is a bicycling enthusiast living and thriving with Parkinson’s. His Web site tracks the thousands of miles he has ridden since his diagnosis more than four years ago. Jim hopes to meet up with Lance Armstrong next week as they both participate in RAGBRI.
To read a news clip Jim, click here.
