Young onset is often more complicated than the decline of elders suffering with the disease, which is hard to fathom considering PD is described as the “suffering” disease. Since folks with PD generally stay as active as possible to remedy the disease, it is easy for the unformed to underestimate how profound the disease is.

I have had a tough time adjusting to this tragedy, I do not know how I will find the presence of mind and strength to support my brother when/ if this inevitable decision arises. He has already talked about it many times. He is amazingly courageous.

The majority of people with PD experience psychiatric problems associated with the brain disorder (organic, not situational) so depression and anxiety are common. Dementia, delusions and hallucinations are side effects of the medications required in PD treatment. It is impossible to separate the mental disorders from the motor disorders, which would be difficult to form a legal medical judgment under the Oregon rules as written.

Lastly I would like to share how angry I am about the lack of regulations of environmental toxins, which are the likely trigger to neuro-degenative disorders. We grew up below one of LA super fund clean-up sites, the BKK dump. It was built on the mesa above the water table. I experience the anger when I have to engage in months long battles to advocate for his benefits, disability, housing, and medical care. He could not do any of this himself, and without my work he would be on the street. The time I have to spend advocating for basic needs is unbelievable. If any of you meet folks in need, the Homeless Action Center does could advocacy support services. I was able to use the internet to inform myself to push ahead and succeed (mostly).