I was diagnosed about a year ago, although it took a long time. Probably because I didn't have the most common symptoms. I was much more sentimental and restless, so my family doctor first suggested I see a psychiatrist. When he couldn't help me, I went to a neurologist and was lucky enough to find a young doctor who was very interested in Parkinson's disease and was able to recognise it from the atypical symptoms. She continues to keep her knowledge up to date by attending Parkinson's conferences, which gives me confidence that I am receiving the most up-to-date care.
For me, it's important to raise awareness that Parkinson's is more than just tremors and movement difficulties; it's a wide range of challenges that vary from person to person. In the beginning, I often felt frustrated when I told my story and people expressed disbelief and surprise because I had no visible symptoms. In this respect, it was nice to find support in the La Tulipe association, which my neurologist also suggested to me.
I now try to go there at least three times a week, usually with my husband. We listen to the seminars and take part in the other activities together. It gives us a good time together and also helps him better understand me and the disease. I also try to stay as active as possible at home: I continue to do the housework, exercise on my home trainer and when the weather allows, my husband and I like to go for walks.