Hi everyone, I’m new to the forum and wanted to say hello.
I’m 56 and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last December, though I’d been on the medical merry-go-round for a good couple of years before that. Lots of GP visits, referrals, back again… one doctor even asked if I was a heavy drinker because of my hand tremor (sigh!). When I eventually saw the right specialist, it took about ten minutes to get a diagnosis. Bit of a hammer blow, if I’m honest, and I’m still finding my feet just over a year on.
I’m an artist, which makes a right hand tremor inconvenient at best, so I’ve been teaching my left hand to take over. It’s slow, occasionally frustrating, and mildly hilarious at times, turns out my left hand didn’t ask for the promotion.
Somewhere along the way I also started writing, mostly to keep my head straight.
Anyway, just wanted to say hi. Looking forward to being part of the conversation and learning from people who actually get it.
Cheers, ste
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Hello @stephen1 , welcome to the forum, and thank you for posting your first message. We hope you find our community and support helpful.
Thank you for sharing your experience. Understandably, you’re still finding your feet over a year on from your diagnosis. It can take time to process and learn more about the impact on your life. It’s okay if your feelings are up and down and change over time, too. No matter how you’re feeling, we’re here for you. We have a range of newly diagnosed resources to support you, your family, friends, and those close to you, which you might find helpful: Newly diagnosed with Parkinson's | Parkinson's UK
Congratulations to your left hand for the promotion! It’s great to hear that you’re still creating art, even though it can be frustrating at times. Writing can be such a helpful tool to help with your wellbeing. We are glad you’re finding it helpful.
Speaking to people who just get it is so important. We’re glad you’ve found the amazing people on this platform 
Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team
Hi ste
Good to meet you. I am really sorry about your hand - well done for not letting it stop you being an artist!
My husband has mostly lost his ability to do the thing he’s been doing & have loved doing all his life. It’s a real bereavement, isn’t it?
Sounds like you’ll find a way to keep going - all the best!
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