Parkinson’s Patient and Advocate, Jo-Ann G, Talks about Why She Is Sharing Her Story
Consider this: In the time it takes you to sift through 30 minutes’ worth of email, at least 3 people will learn they have Parkinson’s disease (PD). And many are unprepared for their new reality. While most people recognize PD symptoms that impact movement, like slowness and tremors or stiffness, the disease also involves a range of non-motor symptoms that can significantly impact the lives of those affected.
Jo-Ann was diagnosed 16 years ago and only recently learned that symptoms like fatigue, difficulty sleeping or memory problems can be associated directly with PD. As an outspoken and active advocate for the PD community, Jo-Ann has made it her mission to educate others and serve as an example of the importance of speaking to healthcare providers about all symptoms. This is why Jo-Ann and her family have shared their story through a reality-style video series through the Facebook community — Parkinson’s More than Motion™. http://www.facebook.com/parkinsonsmorethanmotion?ref=ts&fref=ts Parkinson’s More than Motion™ content is provided by UCB, Inc.
The Parkinson’s More than Motion™ community is a space for people to interact and learn more about the full range of symptoms. More than 40,000 patients and caregivers have added their voices to the conversation about PD through the Facebook page, which offers tools and information on PD, including a downloadable “Well-Being Map” designed for patients to track both motor and non-motor symptoms to help guide the conversation with their healthcare provider.
