SEATTLE — April is awareness month for Parkinson's disease.
In western Washington, the American Parkinson Disease Association's (APDA) Northwest Chapter offers several programs, education and events for people living with Parkinson's disease (PD) and for those who are caregivers.
John Schofield was 33 years old when he was diagnosed with PD.
"Life's not over," said John, now 61. "Easy to get caught up in it and ask, 'what's going to happen next?'"
About 30 years later - John and his wife Suzie continue to adapt and live life fully with their son, Buckley, who is now a freshman in high school.
"Family is especially important. They're with you every day," John said.
Both John and Suzie credit support they receive from outside their family including the community support from the APDA.
"For us, John was so young [when he was diagnosed," Suzie said. "I think we really leaned on family and he had an incredible support at work."
Suzie said John's Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery in 2006 was most life-changing – going from “horse doses” of medication to having the electrodes control the majority of his symptoms.
"Over time, he has had to increase medication again – and there are limits to what DBS can help with," Suzie said. "For example, it’s very effective to control tremor, but it cannot help with freezing or stiffness."
Whether it's been APDA programs, events or family gatherings - the Schofields say the journey has been about staying positive and hopeful.
"We're always optimists," Suzie said. "That goes a long way."
For more information about upcoming programs and fundraisers, click here.