I’m starting to write about what I’ve learned.
My first project is a series of books for my people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Why Parkinson’s Disease? Because of knowing and appreciating people with Parkinson’s Disease. And because I was asked.
Some background. After having babies, I was invited to provide free speech groups all over the city for Dallas Area Parkinsonism Society. The person who invited me called saying, “We’ve heard you might be available to do groups for our people with Parkinson’s.” And then she added, “… and we’ve heard that you have a little daughter. She would be welcome to come with you! Everyone would love to see a little one regularly!” I thought for about two seconds before agreeing! On group days, we packed her lunchbox and headed for the groups. My daughter grew up with at least 20 grandparents in her life at all times!
What a life-changing invitation!
Over the years, I have continued in that role with DAPS, planning around the group sessions, enjoying the interactions and seeing the difference that the work can make for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
I’ve been working in this chair.
I woke up this morning with a realization about this spot.
Love surrounds me there!
As a little girl, this chair was in my Aunt Annie’s house in Shreveport. It was green at the time. Aunt Annie was widowed after being married to my dearly beloved great-uncle, Monroe, who was Chief of the Shreveport Fire Department. When we went to visit, she always had pound cake and I always curled up in this chair. I remember asking my parents if I could, maybe, maybe, take care of the chair, when and if something happened to Aunt Annie. Then, I forgot about that request.
She passed away.
The green chair was given to me!
I had it reupholstered for my daughter’s room … and used a stool to make an ottoman … but I told her that I wanted the chair back if ever she thought of selling it. The chair accompanied her until she was about to marry.
I retrieved it.
And there the chair sits today, with me, giving me such a sweet memory. I work there, surrounded by love….with thoughtful gifts given to me by folks who have come into my life — the tall basket from my children’s godparents, a magnet on my lamp from another precious little girl, a duck that was a surprise from my dad who was not one to give trinkets, a tiny blue/white china dish from Dhamarish, the very first man I worked with from India ….
The memories are so vivid.
I am overwhelmed.
