Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/138116
Looking forward with a lot of support "I found out I had Parkinson's disease about seven years ago," says Bill Ek, a retired boat industry executive who lives in Lebanon with his wife, Karen. Another way Bill and Karen stay current on Parkinson's disease is by attending a Parkinson's support group in Lebanon. Bill went to see his doctor because his right hand was shaking and he became very anxious. "The support group has helped me because you get to know other people who are going through the same thing," he says. "It was a complete surprise to me because I didn't know anything about Parkinson's," he says. Bill went to see Dr. George Wong, medical director of the Parkinson's Clinic of the Ozarks at CoxHealth. "Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement. The primary symptoms are tremors, rigid muscles, slowness of movement and balance problems," explains Dr. Wong. Bill had a full-day evaluation at the clinic with Dr. Wong and his team. Dr. Wong recommended Bill start Lee Silverman Voice Treatment Dr. George Wong (LSVT) BIG therapy. "This therapy is an exercise routine designed for people with Parkinson's disease," says Josh Layman, a physical therapist who oversees LSVT BIG therapy. "The high intensity and focused exercises help improve movement." Bill says the therapy helped his movements and he now completes his therapy exercises at home. 4 4 Bill and Karen Ek take advantage of the many resources available to Parkinson's patients and caregivers. Karen says these resources help her look to the positive things in life and not dwell on the symptoms of Parkinson's. "We have a very good life and a wonderful family," says Karen.