Parkinsons and time on the water?

OK, so last week I go to the docs for a left side tremor, and shortly thereafter I am diagnosed with Parkinsons. Early onset, but confirmed Parkinsons.....at 50yrs old.

While I obviously have been pouring through everything I can get my hands on about the disease, I have very little "hands on" knowledge of what I am about to face in the field. I am currently a very active hunter and flyfisherman. Not sure just how this is going to affect my time outdoors down-the line?

Are there any FAOL folks out there with Parkinsons? And if so, how has it affected your time on the water? Tying knots, wading, etc? How fast has it progressed for you? What have you done that has been beneficial? I would truly appreciate any insight you all could provide me.

Thanks much,

Ralph

Steve Bodio, the writer and outdoorsman, has the disease. Here is a link to his blog:

http://stephenbodio.blogspot.com/


You might try contacting him; he may have some input, insight, or some other ideas for you. I am sorry to hear of your troubles; good luck to you.

I can't answer any of your questions Ralph, but I can tell you you are in my thoughts and on my wifes prayer list.
All the best.
Mike

Not Parkinson's, but my father had ALS
Even before diagnoses, the first indication was that he no longer felt comfortable wading.

Ralph. Have nothing to offer in the way of experience, but I offer my prayers.
Bruce

Folk, I certainly appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

Ralph

Ralph, I'm so sorry to hear. My thoughts are with you. I would thinking that wading in rocky water will become very dangerous.
Randy

I'm very sorry to hear this as well. Wishing you the best here in Chicago.

Ralph,I am sorry to hear.Thoughts and prayers go your way.It always amazes me to see people with major health issues over come their obstacles to enable them to pursue their life and hobbies.I have some minor issues getting around but I have learned to enjoy the moment, one step at a time,one day at a time.Ray

I'm not trying to be flip about your diagnosis. But when the tremors come and you still can wade safely I would look at a Tenkara rod. No reel to worry about, and here is where it may seem insensitive to some but you could sure as hell put some action to a soft hackle.

Ralph I am sorry for the news from the doc and I hope it progresses very slowly for you to provide a long quality time.If you were in my area and felt uncomfortable wading you could always sit in a seat on my bass boat and whip some bream!

Ralph,

Both the Ladyfisher and myself will keep you and yours in our thoughts and prayers.

Again thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

Thomas, I figure slowing me down might not be such a bad thing. Maybe I will focus on actually catching fish now. :)

Ralph