Personal Stories of Patients

A Very Fortunate Woman

Donna-Rae Polk

I consider myself a very fortunate woman… who just happens to have Parkinson’s. Has it changed my life… oh yes…but I have learned that the rest of the world goes way too fast and that a sense of humor is mandatory. Years ago a very dear friend told me that there are three things we need in life; someone to love, something to do and something to look forward to. Keeping this thought in mind, I began to restructure my life and put things in priority.

What was the most outlandish thing this conservative Army brat could do to fulfill a dream? Something I had never done before. I decided I wanted to travel to the ends of the earth - on the back of a motorcycle. Fortunately, my closest friend just happened to be Dr. Gregory Frazier, a photojournalist and motorcycle adventurer. Having traveled solo four times around the world and written eleven books (where to, how to) Greg was definitely qualified and willing.

By this time I was well into my sixth year and knew that we were working with a timeframe, it was now or never. We were on our way. No GPS, no mobile phone, just the two of us on the road, with a six-month supply of meds.

I know there were times he would have cheerfully left me by the side if the road. But 16 months and 30,000 + miles later we are still speaking. He will always be my hero.
You may as well make your first trip a good one!  

Take a look at our fantastic journey at www.ultimategloberide.com.

While traveling, my nights and early mornings were spent writing and illustrating children’s books. To date I have completed 15 books with a dozen more in various stages. It’s a whole new way of life that amazes even me.

My “I” list

It amazes me that I can’t write my name… but I can paint.
I carry my books with me and tell others “if I can do this, just think what you can do.”
I live alone and fight to keep my independence.
I have projects that I do for others, for my enjoyment and self worth.
I try and accomplish at least one goal each day… big or small.
I bought myself a puppy. Something to love.
I will never finish all the projects I have started. Something to do.
I am planning another adventure, a river cruise down the Nile. Something to look forward to.
Never put off ‘til tomorrow what you can do today. In reality, there are no guarantees.
Where there is a will there is a way. If you have faith in yourself you can do anything.

I quietly celebrate each day and say thank you for the gifts I have been given.
My grandfather used to say, “if you can’t hide it, hang a bell on it.”
“Grandfather… can you hear me?”

As I said I am indeed a very fortunate woman… who just happens to have Parkinson’s.

Donna-Rae Polk
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