This article touches on the difficult topic of suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, it’s important to seek help. The Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 and can be reached by calling or texting 9-8-8. Additionally,...
Corrina Masson is Parkinson Society British Columbia’s (PSBC) very own registered social worker and counsellor. With a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in social work from McGill University, Corrina has eight years of experience in the field, including three years...
When Todd Wallace noticed a few concerning symptoms in his left hand and arm in the spring of 2013, he visited his family doctor, who suspected Todd may have Parkinson’s disease (PD). This was confirmed by a neurologist several months later, which came as both a shock...
Identical twin brothers Jim and Pat Smerdon enjoyed a childhood rich with shared adventure, discovery, and the types of playful jokes one can only get away with as a twin. “We were known to have switched classes in school to play tricks on unsuspecting teachers,” Pat...
Until a few years ago, Catherine Pezarro was a career person with a highly active lifestyle. She enjoyed a variety of activities, from regular running, skiing, and yoga sessions, to trying sports like tennis and figure skating. Summer days were spent cycling and...
Retired couple Donna Connolly and Richard Wageman became involved in the Parkinson’s community after Richard’s brother, Bob, was diagnosed with the disease in 2013. He had developed a tremor in his hands, leading him to retire from his dental practice. “Bob has always...
John and Rita Murray married young and have been together for over 60 years, with two children and five grandchildren. For many years, he worked with an overseas mission that took him abroad extensively, while Rita stayed in Canada working for another mission. She was...
When Thora Rogers was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2002, she did not yet know the blessings that this new turn in life would bring. She took it as the encouragement she needed to find her birth family. Thora had been adopted at birth and raised in a warm...
When amateur blues musician Warren Bourgeois was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) in 2013, he remained calm and researched as much as he could about the condition. He was able to take this approach because of the great, all-encompassing care his wife provides....
