Movers and Shakers - mailbag special
We have been overwhelmed, excited and moved by the many supportive messages we have received since the launch of our podcast Movers and Shakers. We wanted to acknowledge and respond to our correspondents but as we record episodes several weeks in advance that could have meant a long delay before we got round to it. So we’ve recorded a bonus edition for this Easter Weekend in which we each read two of our favourite messages. Listen here:
Susan, a former NHS radiographer, tells us of her disappointment with the way her diagnosis was handled:
“Getting to see a consultant was a nightmare, and when I did get an appointment it was by telephone. How anyone thought they could diagnose Parkinson’s over the telephone is beyond me..”
Abdi from South London says our podcast tells him he is not alone:
“Isolation can be a challenge for people with PD, and listening to your podcast makes me feel like I am among people who understand what I am going through.
It is doubly hard in my community (I am British Somali), where there may be less awareness and understanding of my condition.”
And Nick Mostyn reads an email from the widow of a fellow judge. Sir David Penry-Davey who, despite the very severe symptoms which accompanied his Parkinson’s, carried on playing the piano and enjoying a round of golf:
“He loved his golf right to the end and much enjoyed the surprise of his opponents who were flabbergasted by his swing after completely writing him off when they saw him on his zimmer!”
We also get tips from our correspondents - table-tennis is an ideal form of exercise for “Parkies”, birdwatchers with a tremor can carry on enjoying their hobby if they get some binoculars with image stabilisation.
I should also warn listeners of a sensitive disposition that this episode does contain some strong language - and also Jeremy Paxman asking whether he can eat his apple.
Please keep the messages coming. You can email us at feedback@moversandshakerspodcast.com.
Our Twitter account is @moversand6
And we have a Facebook group which is open to everyone:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/146780564990635/
Over the coming weeks we will have episodes on subjects ranging from DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation) to the value of exercise and the experiences of people with Parkinson’s in the world of work.
We are particularly keen to hear from people who found it challenging to carry on working after their diagnosis - do get in touch if you would like to share your experiences.