[editor: very sadly I have to write “I am so so terribly sad to communicate the passing away of Professor Nir Giladi of blessed memory who I wrote about yesterday. A huge huge loss. He literally saved my life and I owe him everything ברוך דיין האמת 💔”. The rest of the article is in his name and memory]
Sometimes I am forced out of my small self centered world and am reminded of the huge amount of people who support those of us with Parkinson’s. They give their lives literally for us.
One of the most important figures in my PD journey (I won’t name him because I don’t know if it is public) is critically ill in hospital having suffered a stroke. He was an angel to me in my hour of need and helped my wife and I through tough times.
He was one of my two neurologists at the start of my journey and I have had the privilege of meeting him many times. Amongst other things he told me to “Make Parkinson’s part of my life and not my life” and pushed me to make sure I take up exercise and keep a positive outlook.
At a moment of crisis when he suspected I had a condition called PSP (you don’t want to know) he made himself available.
He permitted me a little whisky in moderation (this is not a permission to others).
I am so sad at his health condition and I pray from the depths of my heart that he makes it through and that his family are comforted.
I have not had the opportunity to thank him and am sorry for that – I hope I get the chance.
It reminds me of the literally tens of people who are there for me – my doctors, nurses, medical staff, GP, health fund workers, pharmacists, fellow PD patients who help me through this, my physios/various therapists/treatment gives, my Rabbi, my PTs, my colleagues who help me day to day and of course my friends, family, kids and my wife. It is a huge effort and I enjoy the benefits of it.
I pray and ask for your prayers on his behalf and thank all who help me.
Many people struggle in life whether through physical, emotional, financial and other pain and they are helped and healed by those around them. To those who help me I want to say thanks (and hope I remain full of gratitude).
I am blessed with receiving the best care – and am currently writing about its benefits – I am grateful and pray for his health.
