Book Description

"I'm flat on my back on a couch that's too short in a windowless room in the bureau. I can't even sit at a computer, much less make a keyboard work. My arms and legs are shaking uncontrollably. Although I am only 53 years old, I have already been struggling with Parkinson's disease for seven years. And right now the disease is winning." So begins Joel Havemann's account of the insidious disease that is Parkinson's. Into his own story, Havemann weaves accessible explanations of how Parkinson's disrupts the brain's circuitry, how symptoms are managed through drugs and surgery, and how people cope with the disease's psychological challenges. The paperback edition brings the discussion of treatment options and research thoroughly up to date.

Customer Reviews (8)

Everything you need to know but don't want to know
This was by far the most comprehensive, detailed and informative book on Parkinson's disease I have read.
The author is an Early On Set Parkinson's patient and yet, with support, has been able to continue to raise his family and work full-time at his job as Editor of the Los Angeles Times.

He thoroughly investigates medications and other medical proceedures available and their benefits and disadvantages, which I found extremely helpful- certainly more information than I received from any physician.

Further, the author discusses, with amazing frankness, his own physical and mental challenges, which takes it beyond pure information to a story of courage and personal growth.

Parkinson's by deadline
Joel Havemann brings the journalist's practiced eye for detail, detachment and clarity of expression to the task of understanding, describing and coping with Parkinson's. He also allows his heart to speak and the result is a work that should be especially valuable to those who have themselves have recently received a Parkinson's diagnosis or who have a close relative or friend thus stationed.
The book offers clear and interestingly presented facts about the various drugs, treatments and hopeful research that become an integral part of having Parkinson's, as well as the historical and public policy context in which those elements have evolved in the centuries since the disease was first identified. There is just the right mix of facts, opinion and sometimes barely concealed disgust in Havemann's treatment of these matters.
As valuable as those chapters are, I think many will find Havemann's account of his personal odyssey and that of his family to be the more valuable aspect of his book. He is unstinting in his descriptions of the physical and mental effects of the disease and frank about his occasional failures to deal with those effects as effectively as he would like. He also spares little in telling of his fears about the disease's potential progress and what it could mean for him and his family.
I can't think of a better preparation for confronting the many challenges and crises that accompany the arrival of Parkinson's in the life of an individual and family. A Life Shaken is strongly recommended.

An intelligent look at PD
Other books about PD scared the heck out of me, but Havemann's sense of humor and indomitable spirit have changed my perspective. I'm not afraid anymore. Thank you Joel.The book is honest and straightforward. He describes what happens to a brain with PD so clearly that I finally understand it!

A story of Parkinson's that teaches along the way
Author Joel Havemann weaves his own story of living with this progressive neurological disease with a clear and carefully researched explanation that ranges from symptoms and drugs to challenges and the outlook for a cure."For an adventure it is - not one that I would have chosen, but an adventure all the same." Mr. Havemann, an editor with the Washington bureau of the Los Angeles Times, helps us look at the human brain and its intricate yet magnificent operation, and the disastrous consequences of even the simplest misfire. He has created an excellent reference guide for caregiver, family member and patient alike that affirms the paradox of our own frustrations and hopes for the future. We feel Mr. Havemann's determination to keep going for his family, anger at the debilitating symptoms, and belief that the scientific and medical communities will deliver an answer.

Wonderfully touching, Expertly written
Mr. Havemann provides us with an incredibly personal view into Parkinson's disease.His wit, candor, and superb writing style draws the reader into his story to such a degree that it is difficult to disengage.While telling his story he concurrently entertains and educates the reader as to where medicine stands with regard to research and current treatment, and how individuals cope.I'm looking forward to his next work. ... Read more

Book Description
Parkinson's disease is a devastating neurological disease that can strike people of any age.The characteristics of the disorder, causes, treatment, living with the disease, and related research are covered. ... Read more

Book Description
Personal, accessible, informative

A guide for Parkinson patients and their caregivers that addresses the body and the spirit

Written by an expert team of health-care professionals-including a neurologist, a social worker, a nurse practitioner, a physical therapist, and an attorney/financial planner-this guide takes every aspect of living with chronic degenerative illness into consideration.

You will find the answers to your most urgent questions:

* How can I overcome the functional limitations of Parkinson's disease?

* What are the pros and cons of various medications commonly used to treat Parkinson's?

* Why is it important to stay fit and eat right despite the limits Parkinson's disease may put on my body?

* What are some of the breakthroughs in alternative treatments?

* What can I do to better cope with the psychological and emotional issues inherent in living with Parkinson's?

* As a caregiver, how can I best juggle a program of care for a loved one and still find time for myself?

* What insurance options and other forms of financial aid are available and how can one protect one's assets and life savings from long-term illness?

Parkinson's Disease, which features an A to Z Guide to Symptoms and Side Effects and a state-by-state Resource Guide, will help you and your family succeed in your struggle to lead an easier and more fulfilling life.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A must for patients and family members.
As the daughter of an 83 yr old mother who is developing more and more PD symptoms, I found this to be an invaluable resource. I have looked at other newer resources and this is by far, the one I prefer due to the informationfound within and its readability.My mother is now reading it for thethird or fourth time, highlighting as she goes.It has helped both of usunderstand and deal more efficiently with the many symptoms, as theydevelop.

First good information I found on the Parkinson's condition
My aunt picked this up in a continuing education class she took to better understand this disease has been affecting her sister, my mother. It does an excellent job of presenting the evolution of our limited understandingof the causes of the Parkinson's condition. Case studies are used to expandon this basic understanding by illustrating the utility of the insights indealing with the disease in actual patients.

If you are interested inunderstanding this disease, this little book is a great place to start. Itwill provide an excellent base to build on with more recent literature, aswell providing an understanding of how and why different treatments succeedor fail. ... Read more

Book Description
Written by an international group of renowned experts, the Fifth Edition ofthis premier reference provides comprehensive, current information on the genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment, and behavioral and psychologic concomitants of all common and uncommon movementdisorders. Coverage includes Parkinson disease, other neurodegenerative diseases, tremors, dystonia, Tourette syndrome, Huntington disease, and ataxias. This edition features extensive updates on genetics, imaging, and therapeutics of Parkinson disease, other parkinsonian disorders, and all hyperkinetic movement disorders. A bound-in DVD, Video Atlas of Movement Disorders, demonstrates the movement and posture abnormalities and other disturbances associated with Parkinson disease and other neurologic disorders. ... Read more

Product Description
Designed for people with Parkinson's and their families. Written by a registered dietitian who specializes in the nutrition needs unique to Parkinson's, this book features popular recipes that are rich in the nutrients most needed by those with Parkinson's disease. ... Read more

Book Description
Eat well, stay well with Parkinson's disease is designed for people with Parkinson's, caregivers, and health professionals. Written by a registered dietitian who specializes in the nutrition needs unique to Parkinson's, this book features large type, lie-flat binding, and spaces for notes. Also included are recipes and menus designed to provide a 7:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein, for better absorption of levodopa (Sinemet).

Information includes:Timing of medications and dealing with nausea Controlling constipation safely, preventing bowel impaction Fluid needs and dehydration Parkinson's and bone health B vitamin needs, B6 and levodopa Dealing with heartburn / reflux / ulcers / hiatal hernia Why unplanned weight loss can be a problem Chewing & swallowing difficulties Protein and levodopa Menus and recipes in the 7:1 ratio ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

DO NOT PAY 5 TIMES over the Author's price for this book
This is an excellent book and I highly recommend it, WITH 1 CAVEAT: ALL of the "Used and New" sellers are charging about 5 TIMES OVER what the author, Kathrynne Holden, asks for this SAME BOOK on her own web site.SAVE YOUR MONEY and visit www.nutritionyoucanlivewith.com OR just Google "Kathrynne Holden" and save TONS of money if you decide to purchase this exzcellent book.

A GODSEND
This book has proven a godsend for my mom (who suffers from Parkinsons) and myself. The information is sound, easy to follow, and presented with ample background. I like the writer's approach to nutrition (i.e., good flavor is essential). Her knowledge of Parkinsons is impressive. I can't begin to tell you how many questions it answers. I consider this book an essential part of my mom's medical "team."

Great book on nutrition and the PD patient.
One of the most enlightening books I've read regarding Parkinson's Disease.Focusing on nutrition and what your body is going through with PD, it is a primer for what to watch out for, how to deal with dietarychallenges, and what to expect.This book will help you make a nutritionalgame plan, and prepare a pre-emptive strike against most of the commonsurprises PD throws at you. I don't suffer from PD - I'm a family member. It was great for me and great for my family PD-er.I recommend this bookto everyone interested in living better with Parkinson's. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Understanding PD--A Self-Help Guide--A review
A well-written, nicely organized basic introduction and self-help guide written from the perspective of a physician suffering from Parkinson's Disease (PD).This paperback manual explores both the physical and mental sides of dealing with a chronic, devastating illness.It provides strategies and tips for both the sufferer and the caregiver.My only reservation is that, at times, I wished the author would have provided more detailed information on specific, recommended techniques designed to aid the patient.Highly recommended reading.

Light Informative Reading
"Understanding Parkinson's Disease" is a well-written book introducing a patient to life as a Parkinson's patient.I purchased this book to pre-screen it for my parents and found that it was a good book togive them because of it's positive discussion about the disease.If youknow a Parkinson's patient who refuses to read up about the disease(because they don't want to read about all the restrictions they will haveto face in their future) this is a good "first" book.The"Self Help Guide" has a pro-active upbeat approach to workingwith the disease.It doesn't spend a lot of time belaboring how miserablethe future will be, but focuses on how to deal with the present. SinceDr. Cram has Parkinson's Disease himself his viewpoints about the diseasehelp give credibility and enlightenment to the reader.This booksummarized all aspects of the disease while showing how to live with thesymptoms.It is a good starter book for preparing to live with Parkinson'sDisease. Purchase "Caring for the Parkinson patient" by Huttonfor a more in-depth review of Parkinson's and how to live (or care forsomeone) with the disease.

Finally...A plain speaking book about Parkinson's Disease
Dr. David Cram has written a very touching and informative book about Parkinson's Disease that I encourage anyone who has been diagnosed with PD or who knows someone who has been diagnosed with PD to check out. Dr. Cramwho was dianosed ten years ago with PD writes from personal knowledge andcovers everything from symptoms to the newest drug therapies. I alsoenjoyed the comments interspersed throughout the book from patients,physicians, nurses, counselors and therapists. This is a very encouragingbook and I recommend it highly! ... Read more

Product Description
Designed to promote relaxation; regulate mood; encourage balance and good posture; imagine strong, steady movement; alleviate depression, discouragement and fatigue; increase symptom control over freezing, cramping and/or tremors; support energy, self-esteem and motivation. Includes cellular imagery specific to PD. (51 minutes ... Read more

Book Description

Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Alzheimers Disease and Parkinsons Disease (ADPD), held March 9-13, 2005 in Sorrento, Italy.

Product Description
A first-hand account of fighting Parkinson's from the viewpoint of both patient and caregiver. "Carolyn's Journey" shares the journey of Carolyn Anderson and her diagnosis with Parkinson's Disease through the eyes of her husband and primary caregiver, Victor Anderson. It is a straightforward look at the challenges of diagnosing Parkinson's disease, dealing with the doctors and insurance companies, and current prognosis and treatment of Parkinson's disease. It also shares some of the hopeful new medical paractices such as Deep Brain Stimulation that have allowed Carolyn to enjoy a nearly normal life. This book will help you: 1) Learn the symptoms and early warning signs of Parkinson's disease; 2) Gain insights from both the viewpoint of the caregiver and the patient; 3) Explore treatment options; 4) Follow the progression of Parkinson's from early symptoms through near recovery; and 5) Gain basic information and background about Parkinson's disease. ... Read more

Product Description
An integrated mini review of the drug therapy for Parkinson's disease,illustrated with visually appealing tables and diagrams. A quick visual aidfor the course study and board review ... Read more

Book Description
This digital document is an article from Internal Medicine News, published by Thomson Gale on September 1, 2006. The length of the article is 910 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Avoid diagnostic pitfalls for Parkinson's disease.(Neurology)
Author: Heidi Splete
Publication: Internal Medicine News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: September 1, 2006
Publisher: Thomson Gale
Volume: 39Issue: 17Page: 31(1)

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Book Description
WHAT'S SHAKIN"John you had me crying one moment and laughing out loud the next" Deborah Rausch Business Manager, Hauenstein Parkinson's Center.

"My wife and I started to read the book at bed-time and were not able to put it down until we finished it" Tim Parker, Vice President-Marketing, Bissell Corp.

"I bought the book as a gift for my dad and I could hear him laughing from the next room."Jeff Lipe, Co-owner Oosterink and Lipe.

[Insert picture here: copy of Golf Cart.tif]LAUGH. LAUGH.LAUGH

It is not impossible to find something humorous about a disease as devastating as Parkinson's.All you have to do is read this book.What's Shakin is not a book about Parkinson's disease, however it is a book about a man who has Parkinson's and the hilarious situations he has fallen into as a result of this disease. What's Shakin will have you rolling on the floor with laughter, so be careful where you read it, you do not want to become the object of whispers and stares.

The book also has a serious side to it and will offer hope and inspiration to anyone who has had tragedy touch their lives. What's Shakin is fresh and inspirational.The author's life experiences offer optimism and encouragement to others regardless of what misfortunes they may face.

What's Shakin should be read by everyone. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

I'm cured!
I have purchased numerous copies of "What's Shakin" and they keep disappearing.I loan them to family and friends and they loan them to others.These people are also buying copies of the book for family and friends.If this book was rated honestly it would receive more than five stars. I told John that if laughter is truly the best medicine I would be cured.I was laughing so hard at times, I could not open my eyes to read.
This man, his family, and the book are wonderful examples of courage.I can't wait until the second is published. I also have young onset parkinsons.

What's Shakin
What's Shakin is an excellent read.It gives people an insight on what it is like to live with Parkinsons on a day to day basis.It is also hilarious as the author describes the predicaments he has gotten himself in to. The author has such a positive outlook on life with Parkinson's.I would highly recommend the book for anyone who has had tragedy touch their lives. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Timeless support for all with Parkinson's - especially young onset
This book is for anyone involved with Parkinson's disease, but especially those diagnosed at an early age. I was diagnosed in my early 40's and found this book to be a great source of information and support. People diagnosed at an 'early' age have additional issues to deal with such as young families, employers and a medical treatment plan that must span many years. This book offers quotes and thoughts from many who have endured. Although the book was written a few years ago, the support offered is timeless.

Everyone is Affected Differently
Everyone is affected differently by Parkinson's Disease.Some have it worse than others. For some, progression is slow, for others it is more rapid. Some people do not manifest tremors. Many don't face upper body problems, speech or swallowing problems. There are many myths associated with Parkinson's. It is very individual. Living with Parkinson's is a learning process, and one has to keep a positive attitude.Many people are living well and independently with the disease.It doesn't necessarily have to be a nightmare world. There are adjustments to be made, and it can be an inconvenience, but the challenge will reap rewards.

Bestbook of its kind I've read
I had the honor of having a couple poems included in this book
and am aware of the huge committment made by the authors to
assemble; organize and edit this rarely explored topic. This book looks at a horrible, progressive neurological disease from
an unique perspective; that of those afflicted at an early age; (and their caregivers) who face ignorance and lack of understanding as well as the physical and mental problems commonly associated with the disease.

This is not some dry, statistical analysis but an indepth look
at a nightmare world few people truly understand. It is filled
with useful knowledge and organizations and isa must-have for
anyone suffering from or caring for those with Parkinson's.

I can't stress enough how much this book sheds light on a topic
rarely discussed in this depth. Doctors, nurses and anyone in the
medical field are missing something special if they don't make the time to read this book.

Bill Harrington ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Review by a speech-language pathologist
I read Neurorehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease with great interest.As the editors point out in the introduction, patients with Parkinson's are being seen in increasing numbers as our population ages.The book fills the need for a comprehensive text on this complex disease.It addresses both theory and practice and does not neglect the importance of home programs and the needs of the Parkinson's patient in the wider community.Clinicians in the various fields that treat Parkinson's will benefit from the clearly written text and the fact that treatment suggestions are based on solid evidence.I highly recommend this book.
Thelma Zirkelbach, Ed.D., C.C.C. SLP

... Read more

Book Description
A Powerful, All-Natural Program to Protect Your Brain Against Alzheimer's, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, Parkinson's, and Other Brain Diseases.

Scientists predict that within fifteen years brain disease will kill or disable more North Americans than cancer and heart disease combined.

The Brain Wash is a powerful, holistic health plan based on the most cutting-edge brain, nutrition, and healing research. Combining thousands of scientific studies from around the globe, The Brain Wash offers a comprehensive, easy-to-follow approach proven to help protect your brain from damage.

*** The Ultimate Brain Health Plan ***

• Get individualized, proven prevention and treatment plans for Alzheimer’s, depression, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, and more.
• Learn how everyday drugs, environmental pollutants, heavy metals, and pathogens cross the blood-brain barrier to wreak havoc on your brain.
•  Discover that your nutrition and lifestyle choices have been proven to be the key determinants in your brain’s health—and what to do about it.

 Using brilliantly coloured foods and the most powerful natural medicines on earth, this book will show you how to strengthen your brain, prevent and treat disease, and enjoy your long life to its fullest. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Migraine Free
This book enlightened me to all the things that pass the blood brain barrier which cause various illnesses and diseases. After applying the diet changes recommended, I have successfully been migraine free after suffering with a minimum of five a month. I would highly recommend anyone having troubles with headaches or an illness related to the brain, get this book and apply it. The relief will be well worth it.

the brain wash
this is an excellent book
curret
hopeful
and practical
I have been using some of the techs. with much succees

Far too much gloom and doom for me...
When I read the release copy for The Brain Wash: A Powerful, All-Natural Program to Protect Your Brain Against Alzheimer's, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Depression, Parkinson's and Other Diseases by Michelle Schoffro Cook, I thought that the concept sounded interesting.But for me, the reality was significantly different.I could have done without all the gloom and doom of the first part of the book.By the time I finished, I would have thought it was a minor miracle that everyone hadn't yet succumbed to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by now based on the writings...

Contents:
Acknowledgments; Introduction - Your Brain Is at Risk; Your Marvellous Brain in Action
Part 1 - The Brain Killers: Heavy Metal and Your Brain; The Deadly Neurotoxins; Food, Pseudo-Foods, and Chemicals in Disguise
Part 2 - The Brain Defenders: A Gut Instinct for Brain Health; Protective Foods and Nutrients; Healing Herbs
Part 3 - The Ultimate Brain Health Program: The Brain Wash Plan; The Brain Wash Plan for Specific Brain Diseases; Natural Therapies to Boost Your Brain
Resources; Endnotes; Index; About the Author

Before we get too far into this review, let me state very clearly...I agree that diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's exist, and I have no problem with the theories that they may be caused in part by environmental and/or nutritional issues.Having said that, I don't think it's useful to say that pretty much everything we eat, drink, breathe, or touch will somehow put very bad things in our body and guarantee we'll die early.Part 1 of the book is where I got off on the wrong foot.Heavy metals such as cadmium, aluminum, and mercury are explained, symptoms of poisoning are listed, and sources of these poisons are listed.The symptom lists are enough to cause hypochondriacs to have a field day.Just about any ache or pain can be found in one of the lists (except for the fabled four hour...you know.)And the source list encompasses pretty much everything you have in your house, car, kitchen, and refrigerator.So if you're living a relatively typical life, face it...you're toast.And toast is on the list too if you're toast with white bread.

Getting into parts 2 and 3, you start to learn what you can do to clean up the damage already in your body, as well as stave off additional problems.There's less gloom and doom here, but you could go crazy and broke trying to do everything listed.There are the typical vitamins and minerals, as well as a number of foods that have healthy properties.But then you start getting into what I would call esoteric things like rhodiola rosea, wild lettuce extract, grape extract, pectin, NADH, etc.I'm sure your local health food store will just LOVE you!And pretty much everything has to be organic, as that seems to be the only way to "guarantee" the food is healthy for you.But I couldn't help wondering...do you trust the "organic" label thrown on stuff these days? (I'm cynical.)And if the environment is already so polluted with mercury, lead, and other nasties, then aren't the "organic" foods sucking up those same things as part of their growth?Granted, probably less so than pesticide-laden crops, but I don't think we're talking black and white extremes here.It seems as if it's more a spectrum of grey...

There's much to be said for Cook's information and general approach.If you made the effort to eat and supplement as she directs, you would definitely live longer and probably eliminate some physical ailments you have.But I don't think I want to have my monthly paycheck direct deposited at the health food store, nor do I want to agonize over every last piece of fruit I pick up.The value I see here is to raise your awareness of how the brain is affected by food and chemical exposure, and give you the information you need to make potential changes as you see necessary.But like many radical dietary changes, I don't hold out much hope of long-term sustainability when the average person can't even stay on a basic diet and lose weight... myself included. ... Read more