The recent report about scientists reversing Parkinson’s in mice gave me a renewed sense of hope and optimism that a cure could really be just around the corner.
This got me thinking about what my life would look like if the cure came in the next few years. Albeit this is a bit of a stretch right now, but again, it’s a thought experiment and it’s okay to dream a bit.
I realized that, after happily closing this group (assuming we can all have access to and benefit from a cure), my life would look similar to what it’s like now, just more of it. See, before PD, I was on the fast track at work, working as a college professor seeking tenure, while also working on my software business, as well as considering running for local government.
Today, my life includes travel, leisure, exercise, and thoughtful reflection on life, and writing about it. If PD was cured today, I would not go back to the rat race, ladder climbing, A-type personality that disappeared after diagnosis. Instead, I would travel more, exercise for longer, maintain my life of leisure, write about life, and stay as a part time professor.
See, although it can be argued that Parkinson’s was the worst thing that happened to me, it also gave me a new perspective on my life. It taught me to value what really matters. Spending time with family and friends, seeing the world, and having the time to contemplate life and our role in this big adventure we’re all a part of. This is how Parkinson’s has helped me see things differently.
For many of us, Parkinson’s has forced us to stop and smell the roses, as the saying goes. I think I’ve become a better person because of it. I have more empathy for others. I am more present in my everyday life. And understanding that death comes for all of us, I try to live my best life each day.
How about you? What would you do if the cure came out tomorrow? Let me know in the comments.
Remember, this is just a thought experiment, and there is nothing wrong with a little dreaming.
