By Ted Grossman

Special to the Journal

This much is known about Parkinson’s disease. It’s chronic and yet to be discovered in terms of its causes and inabilities to cure the millions of men and women, young and old, who are Parkinson’s patients.Parkinson’s patients usually bring about the following symptoms: shaking or tremors, slowness of movement, still news or rigidity of a person’s arms, leg and trunk, and trouble with balance.

But the news isn’t all bad.

Extensive research by doctors from throughout the world are coming up with creations that are reducing the effects  of many person’s above-mentioned symptoms.There are many tools being used to help Parkinson’s patients, and they’re available locally, as well as throughout Washington state and the world.

They include physical therapy, water aerobics, diet, dancing, tai chi and yoga. I say this from experience. I’m getting physical therapy at least one every week, and three times a week for water aerobics. I’m also getting information on diet, and the benefits of doing tai chi and dancing. My main message is the need to avoid stress. Support group leaders play a major role in keeping patients relaxed, having a good time, and keeping cool, even when you lose your keys, glasses, etc. The support group on Orcas Island will formally open its doors Tuesday, Dec. 20, with a gathering at 1 p.m., at the senior center. Meetings will take place the third Tuesday of every month, Everyone is invited to attend them, not just those with the disease.

There will be a special meeting of the group Wednesday, January 18, also at 1 p.m. It will feature Dr. Monique Giroux, an esteemed physician in the battle against Parkinson’s. Dr. Giroux stresses the importance of a balanced life in which there is physical therapy, diet and control of stress in addition to medication.Thanks to Linda Tretheway, senior services coordinator on Orcas Island, for allowing Parkinson’s patients to use the senior center. Linda has been of great help in getting the local support group get off the ground.Thanks also to Jackie Ashe of Lopez Island. She has been a support group leader for some time, and has won the support of Parkinson’s patients  who are attending Jackie’s meetings.I am the coordinator here on Orcas.

I am in a very different role from that of newspaper editor, which I held for 21 years.  Stick with me. We will learn together and, hopefully, have a good time. I’ll see you on Dec. 20.Finally, we are seeking a group support leader for San Juan Island. Anyone from that island who would be interested in  volunteering to take this much needed position should call me, Ted Grossman, at 376-4979

— Ted Grossman is former editor of the Islands’ Sounder.