Last year, Michael J Fox released his documentary “Still”, which gave us insight into his very long battle with Parkinson’s. This week, PBS aired a documentary in the series Matter of Mind, this time focusing on 3 people with Parkinson’s. (The other parts of the series focus on ALS and Alzheimers). Both documentaries are outstanding and should be available for everyone with PD and their families.

In Matter of Mind: My Parkinson’s, the filmmakers follow three people with Parkinson’s, each of them diagnosed more than 10 years ago. They live in different parts of the country and have had very different experiences. The one thing in common is that they have all had to make serious decisions in the last few years about their future.

Peter, a political cartoonist, was diagnosed 20 years ago and had Deep Brain Stimulation surgery about 10 years ago. Living in Alaska with his wife and dog, he did not have access to good PD care. Drawing was becoming more difficult, and frequent falling became a problem, prompting a move to another state where he could see a Movement Disorders Specialist on a regular basis.

Veronica, a mother turned boxing coach, was diagnosed when pregnant with her daughter, who is now 13. Her story goes in depth about how PD affects her family, especially her daughter.

In the third story, Juan, an optician, contemplates DBS as his tremor worsens and makes it difficult to do his job. The film follows him through the surgery and its outcome.

As someone who was diagnosed 15 years ago, I was interested in how they saw their Parkinson’s progression and the decisions that they made about their treatment. It is very rare that we see real people with Parkinson’s talking about their disease and how it affects not just them, but their families as well. Matter of Mind: My Parkinson’s does a very good job showing us life with Parkinson’s disease. It is definitely worth watching for everyone with PD and their families.

Peter Dunlap-Shohl, the cartoonist, is the author of the book

My Degeneration: A Journey Through Parkinson’s

based on his experience with PD. His drawings are featured throughout the documentary.

Parkinson’s Wellness Fund

On Sunday, Russell Meyerowitz and JM Kenny spoke to my Sunday morning group about how the Parkinson’s Wellness Fund can help People with Parkinson’s with financial aid. You can watch the recording here. The PWF will be having its annual fundraising golf tournament in June in Southern California. Click on the flyer for more information.

World Parkinson’s Day is Thursday

Don’t forget to record your sit-to-stands, participate in Insight Parkinson’s and other activities going on April 11. Details in the previous blog post.

The annual Twitchy Woman T-shirt Sale ends Friday, April 12

Time is running out so order yours today! These exclusive t-shirts will not be available again until November.

Click here to order and to see other styles and colors.

Have a great week