George Daniels has always been a musician. At 73, he still plays guitar and drums, teaches music, and finds joy in the rhythm of a well-played song. But in 2018, Parkinson’s changed the tempo of his life.

The diagnosis didn’t come as a complete shock. George had already noticed slight changes in his early 60s – feeling more anxious, a slight tremor in his left hand when he spoke, and shaking in his right leg. Still, when the neurologist confirmed it was Parkinson’s, George made the decision to learn as much as he could and stay positive.

When the music had to pause 

His diagnosis has changed how he goes about his day, as some things have become more challenging and he’s had to adjust. Through it all, music remains central in his life. He was even invited to join a band for seniors. George started to prepare the band’s setlist and was excited to jump back into music, but as he sat down to play the drums, his leg wouldn’t cooperate, stopping his participation.

“I came to the realization that I wouldn’t be able to drum with a band,” he says. “I was disappointed.”

Though he couldn’t play with the group, he continues to play and make music. He picks up his guitar and practices drumming at home almost every day.

Parkinson’s looks like this 

For George, non-motor symptoms play a major factor in his day-to-day. These symptoms affect things like his mood, sleep, or energy, often having a bigger impact on him than the motor-related symptoms.

“When the levodopa doesn’t work, I don’t trust myself,” he says. “I put a weighted blanket on and hold on until my next dose.”

Those moments can be challenging, but George has found what helps keep him steady. He spends his time reading, caring for his garden, playing instruments and keeping a positive attitude.

Advice from someone who’s been there 

George’s family treats him no differently than before his diagnosis; life at home carries on naturally. When he isn’t able to go out or join in on some activities, his family finds other ways to be involved together.

His advice to anyone newly diagnosed is simple.

“Don’t give up hope. Stay strong. Find something that works for you and makes you comfortable and makes you believe.” 

Parkinson’s is only a small part of George’s life and hasn’t dimmed his love of creating music. George is still a devoted musician, caring father and continues to write his own story.

Parkinson’s is hard. We’re here to help. Call Parkinson Canada’s support line at 1-888-664-1974 or visit parkinson.ca/resources/support-line.