Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease does not mean you can’t still enjoy life.

That’s the positive message from Newcastle Parkinson’s Support Group’s Sandra Elms, who is inviting local sufferers to take part in a number of activities – from singing to arts – throughout the region.

The Art Therapy Group showcases its creative side at the Hamilton Community Hive each Monday morning while the Sing-A-Long Group convenes every Tuesday afternoon at The Church of the Good Shepherd in Kotara.

Charlestown also hosts The Support Group, an informal gathering where people can meet, chat and socialise, on the first Saturday of each month.

“The standard image of Parkinson’s is someone (aged) with a tremor, shuffling, bent over with a very quiet voice,” Ms Elms said.

“This is far from universal and there are many people in their 50s and younger who have the disease with varying symptoms.

“What has become clear from research at universities and other establishments all over the world that while there is no cure, activities both mental and physical, together with socialisation, have helped to slow the progression and certainly help to improve the quality of life.

“Take The Sing-a-Long Group, for example.

“The Shake Rattle Roll Choir was formed in 2015.

“Each session consists of exercises for the voice to improve its clarity and help with swallowing.

“So, it serves a couple of purposes.”

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Sadly, the number of people living with Parkinson’s in Australia ranges from 84,000 to 212,000 (0.85% of population).

“A diagnosis can occur at any age with the most common being 65,” Ms Elms said.

“But, 10% of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s are younger than 45.

“And, 18% of those living with Parkinson’s are of working age.”

It was in Newcastle, in 2012, that Ms Elms was first diagnosed with the disease.

“I had a tremor, but I thought it was going to be a thyroid problem as my mother and my sister had thyroid issues,” she recalled.

“I knew Parkinson’s was the other possibility, but I didn’t really think it was going to be that, so it was a bit of a shock.

“The thing with Parkinson’s is that there is no one test, it’s a slow process of elimination.

“I saw one rather unpleasant neurologist who bluntly told me that in 10 years I’d be in a wheelchair when I asked what my prognosis was.

“I didn’t go back to him.

“It’s so important you find someone you’re comfortable with that you trust – and a good GP.

“Because I taught science, and was a medical researcher, I’ve researched a lot and read a lot and I more or less decide on what medications I will take, with my neurologist.

“And, I am grateful that it’s something which can be treated, it’s not something worse.”

THE SUPPORT GROUP

An informal group where people can meet, chat and socialise. Each month a guest speaker is invited to entertain and inform with precise up-to-date information from medical and research personnel about various aspects of the disease. The group also provides advice and information on where to get support for both sufferers and their carers. At the conclusion of each meeting, afternoon tea is provided. It is an inclusive, friendly and supportive environment.

• Meets at: 17 James Street, Charlestown
• Day: First Saturday of each month
• Time: 2pm
• Information: Karen Begley (secretary – 4955 9822)

SING-A-LONG GROUP

The Shake Rattle Roll Choir was formed in 2015. Each session consists of exercises for the voice to improve the clarity of voice and help with swallowing. The group sings along to a variety of songs chosen by members. Each session is led by a qualified musical director, accompanied by a pianist. At the end of each session, there is afternoon tea where members can chat and socialise.

• Meets at: The Church of the Good Shepherd, Joslyn Street, Kotara
• Day: Tuesday afternoon
• Time: 1.30pm-3.30pm
• Information: Sandra Elms (0405 441 150)

ART THERAPY GROUP

Artistic skill is not required in this fun activity to help with coordination and cognition. A variety of artistic techniques are demonstrated and participation is encouraged with the help of an art teacher. Magic happens at these sessions.

• Meets at: The Hamilton Community Hive, 150 Beaumont Street, Hamilton
• Day: Monday morning
• Time: 11am-1pm
• Information: Victoria Jago (0448 920 289)

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