I am 37 years old and live in Northern California. I can remember symptoms that might have been an indicator as early as 18 years old but around the age of 23 I started noticing a tremor in my right hand that would come and go. By age 28 I was having stiffness in my arms and my tremors were becoming increasingly worse in my right hand where others were noticing it. It became hard to brush my teeth, my arm felt heavy, weak and unwilling to make the movement up and down. After a trip to UCSF at approximately age 28 it was confirmed, I had PD.

At the time I had been working as a Paralegal for a Lawfirm.  I was finally making my way... had my own place, car, health insurance, financially stable and hoping to marry and maybe eventually have a family.  A little over 3 years ago I had to stop work because I was unable to keep up, physically and mentally.  I am on SSDI, Medicare, and a very limited income and lifestyle.  I am still not married and feel as though I have lost a lot because of this illness.  Just this year I have become unable to drive anymore.  I have severe depression and anxiety and wonder if I will ever feel like ME again.  I am looking to meet other young-onsets that can relate and share experiences with, gain friendship and help give emotional support and guidance to each other.

I am currently really struggling with dystonia in my left leg/foot.  At times I have experienced freezing and I feel very uncomfotable in public at times.  My current bf is very understanding and supportive but I have come to realize that relationships with family and friends have become difficult because of my severe depression and anxiety problems.  In the last year my PD has progressed rapidily, mostly because of the stress I have been dealing with, interactions w/relationships, and anxiety with severe depression.  I am working hard to get things back on track but it hasn't been easy.  I have an In Home Care Provider that helps me now.

This illness was once something I thought I could handle but lately I find myself terrified that this is as good as it gets for the rest of my life.  I would really like the motivation to regain my life back, as altered as it may be, and find some self worth and independance.