In the journey of living with Parkinson’s disease, setting and pursuing goals becomes not just a strategy for managing the condition, but a way of reclaiming agency and purpose in one’s life.

For Jim, the journey began with subtle tremors and twitches, signs that something wasn’t quite right. Reflecting on his initial symptoms, he recounts, « The first symptom was a tremor in my lower lip. I didn’t think much of it, thought it was a bad habit, but not long after, my left thumb started to twitch, then the entire hand. » Despite initial uncertainty, Jim sought medical advice, eventually receiving the diagnosis that would change the course of his life.

Fear and uncertainty often accompany a Parkinson’s diagnosis, but for Jim, it was also a moment of clarity. « A mix of relief and the fact that the thing had a name now. Before that, I just knew something was wrong, » he shares. The fear had to do with what the future would hold. “Due to being self-employed, I had no pension or disability benefits. The kids were adults, and now I was to have my highest earning years. How with Parkinson’s at age 54? » Yet, amidst the uncertainty, Jim found solace in the support of his family and a determination to confront Parkinson’s head-on.

One of Jim’s primary coping mechanisms has been to set goals and focus on the present moment. « All I have to worry about is today and tomorrow, » he emphasizes. Living within a « 3-year bubble, » Jim remains committed to his work and maintaining a sense of purpose. « I always had a financial plan for retirement I had to follow through with. I had to focus on, ‘If I can go for a 1-mile walk today, I can probably go for one tomorrow,' » he affirms. Now, at age 68, he has met and surpassed his initial goals and is still contemplating retirement.

Physical activity plays a vital role in Jim’s approach to managing Parkinson’s. Despite the challenges of routine, he makes a concerted effort to stay active, whether through golfing in the summer or hitting the gym in the winter. « Part of it is… I never quit, and I’m not going to quit because of this, » Jim asserts.

Alongside physical activity, Jim underscores the importance of keeping the mind engaged. « I like goals… I believe there’s a purpose to my life that comes from beyond me, » he shares. Finding fulfillment in helping others, Jim has dedicated himself to fundraising efforts like the annual golf tournament « Chipping in for Parkinson’s, » creating a community of support and advocacy.

Despite misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding Parkinson’s, Jim remains steadfast in dispelling myths and advocating for greater understanding. « The misconception that relying on medication makes you weak… Meds are there to make the best of what you got, » he emphasizes.

To those grappling with a recent Parkinson’s diagnosis, Jim offers words of encouragement and practical advice. « It is easy to look at something and say, ‘Boy, did he mess up. Look at me, I’m doing better, you don’t know what they are facing,' » he reflects. By setting goals, staying active, and seeking support, Jim exemplifies resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

In the journey of living with Parkinson’s, setting goals becomes not just a strategy for managing the condition but a pathway to empowerment and fulfillment. Through Jim Peters’ journey, we are reminded of the power of resilience, community, and embracing life one day at a time.

“We can beat this thing, One Day at a Time”