Finally, thanks to a contact in the Northwest, I found out yesterday that he has gone back east for a year to care for a member of his family.  I was told to keep in contact with her and that when anything changes/she hears something, she will let me know.  Hope this gives some of you some answers.  When I hear something/anything else, I’ll let you know.

Meanwhile, keep your spirits up and hang in there!

Sherri

I have a new doctor. No, I didn’t dump mine and contend for another. As most of you know, mine lost his practice because of lack of funds, and cutting back on Medicare closed the doors. I can say with certainty that he was most likely the best in the west.

A patient never waited more than ten minutes, tops. His nurse was the best. He spent time with you as if you were all that mattered on his list of patients for that day. You knew he cared and could understand first hand what you were dealing with, having a similar physical fight of his own to deal with. He explained things in such a way so that you felt educated when leaving and could understand yourself what was going on inside of you. He was compassionate and so kind. And he’s not there anymore.

So, I have a new doctor. And while he was ‘okay’, the difference between the old and new was blaring. This new doctor (new to me but near retirement) was kind, smiled at the right times and all the rest, but he was not Dr. Anthony Santiago, MD. MDS. VIP. Didn’t even come close.

Today’s doctor wasn’t bad – he just wasn’t Dr. Santiago. I didn’t know him and he didn’t know me. I am quite confident that I am not going to enjoy these ‘new’ visits, unlike those I had with Dr. S- who always had a smile, a laugh, a genuine concern for his patients. And, I NEVER had to strip down to my skivvies for an exam. What is up with that?

Survey: How common is that (for PD patient exams)? I’ve been to three other neurologists and have never had to do that. (Leave a comment, please.) Weird.

I came home and cried. I just want Dr. Santiago back but I know I have to face this. Problem is – I don’t want to.

Meanwhile, another reason I want my doctor back is for another situation the doctors are looking at. They’re wondering whether the lupus that they thought was a brain tumor and then MS and then ruled it all out by mere lack of evidence and then thought perhaps it was the PD starting in my early 30’s instead of 2004 – well now they’re back to looking at lupus since my ANA is off the charts. I’m curious, however, to find out what it is and if that’s what’s causing so much of the pain. Time will tell.

Until then, we are promised today only and I am so grateful I know Jesus and the unrelenting fact that we don’t go through anything alone.

A friend so timely emailed a link to a beautiful song today. It was waiting in my inbox when I arrived home after my appointment. I clicked on it and listened. God is sovereign and knows just what we need, just when we need it. I hope you’ll listen to it and be as blessed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=diUhGip85U8

I’ve been gone. Gone to Kentucky for a week, to be with my brother through his hip surgery and hopefully I was some help afterward. Three weeks ago, I was in Montana helping my mom with my dad after his back surgery.

A lot has happened in between then and yesterday. For example, I broke my toothbrush. What?! you may ask. Yes, I broke my toothbrush. It was one of those electric kind that run on batteries and my hand was refusing to cooperate and the harder I pushed, the harder I scrubbed, well… it broke.

And, that was the last straw. I broke down. For the (I think) first time since being diagnosed five years ago, I was angry and grieving. Through that melt down, I learned several things (not in any particular order).

1. I am tired.
2. I cannot do what I used to do.
3. I can’t cope with disorganization in my life.
4. I am frustrated that I get distracted so easily.
5. I want my doctor back.
6. I came home seeing improvements in the people I cared for, while nothing inside me got better.
7. I know that things can always be worse.
8. No matter what does or doesn’t happen, it will not catch God by surprise.

I started this blog about four years ago as more of a journal. During my melt down, I realized I miss that. Sometimes I think I have to be strong and not let others see the struggle within me because of this disease. I have tremors that are becoming more noticeable, but it’s what goes on inside of me that makes others say things like, “You sure don’t look like you have Parkinson’s disease.”

Sometimes, don’t you wish you could switch birth suits so others might have a better understanding? Everyone’s perception of certain diseases is different. Many people don’t realize all the different elements that can be prevalent in Parkinson’s. Depression. Loss of smell. Pain. Loss of mobility in doing basic, simple tasks like tying your own shoes. There’s so much more, but I don’t need to go into that.

The thing is – I love to write. It’s harder now than it used to be. I don’t even attempt handwriting anymore unless it’s signing a card or something similar. Even the computer frustrates me, especially when my ‘mobility’ isn’t cooperating and my mind is racing with ideas.

I love to encourage others because of what I’ve gone through. I believe that God always places someone a little further up on the path of life, so that they are able to help us on our journeys. Someone a little more experienced, a little bit wiser. They come alongside us and there’s an instant camaraderie. The circle becomes complete when we do the same thing for others.

So, even though my discouragement (and sometimes despair) kicks in and beckons me to walk toward the side of the road where discouragement dwells, I’ll remember my list…

1. I am tired, but I’m still kicking.
2. I cannot do what I used to do, but I am doing something.
3. I can’t cope with disorganization in my life, so I am working on simplifying things in my life so I don’t get so frustrated.
4. I am frustrated that I get distracted so easily, so I am making a concerted effort to improve my brainpower any way I can. (Anyone have any suggestions?)
5. I want my doctor back, but I’m willing to go where God sends me.
6. I came home seeing improvements in the people I cared for, while nothing inside of me got better… and that’s okay.
7. I know things can always be worse and just might, but…
8. …no matter what does or doesn’t happen, it won’t catch God by surprise.

So, I guess this is to say, I hope to get back to posting more regularly and more personally as I journey day by day with PD. After all, it’s when we allow ourselves to become transparent that we can do the most good for those coming behind us.

Who’s following you?

Are you tired of the cold northwest dumping more than snow on you? Awaiting you is a warmer yet wet little area of the northwest not commonly mentioned.While browsing the internet two days ago, I came across a phenomenal breakthrough in opportunities to fit your specialty.

The Best Job in the World

By clicking on the above link, you will be connected directly to the site where awaiting you is an opening needing the greatest neurologist in the world who also specializes in movement disorders, among other specialties.

Let’s take a quick look at the magnitude of this opportunity, as stated in the job description:

Premier southwest Oregon private practice is currently scheduling interviews for a board-certified / board-eligible Neurologist.

You will have the opportunity to sub-specialize in the following areas (fellowship training preferred): Cerebrovascular Disease/Stroke, EEG/EMG, Epilepsy, Movement Disorders, Multiple Sclerosis, Neurophysiology, Sleep Disorders, Pain or Pediatrics.

-Enjoy a competitive starting salary, comprehensive benefits, pension plan, and partnership track when you join this dynamic clinic (Please note they said ‘dynamic’ – I didn’t have to entice you with big words)
-Be busy from day one (I will be your first patient to guarantee this benefit!)
-Large catchment area of over 600,000 offering a solid patient base (I can also guarantee a solid patient base as Parkinson’s Journey has several of your past patients patiently waiting to hear that you’re not too far away from landing nearby, and ready, if need be, to welcome you at the newly renovated Rogue Valley International Airport, with two baggage turnstiles and all on one convenient level!)
-Well-established physician referral network (I’m not sure how I can guarantee this one.)
-Collegial practice environment (I can guarantee this, as the university is so close and think of all the young minds you could mentor.)
-Terrific work-life balance (I can guarantee this by stating that your drive to work will not be anywhere near what you had to drive to get to Spokane / Liberty Lake – unless of course you find a home that far out again!)

The Medford Neurological & Spine Clinic has a 44-year history of offering comprehensive neurological services. As the only full-service clinic in the surrounding area, our clinic staffs both neurologists and neurosurgeons and specializes in adult and pediatric neurology, electro-diagnostic studies, stealth frameless CT- / MRI-guided cranial surgery, skull base surgery, microsurgical spinal surgery, transphenoidal adenomectomy and stereotactic radiosurgery consultations. (Isn’t that just so exciting?!!!)

Would you consider joining our team? Apply today! (Please!!!)

If the above weren’t enough to entice you, get your wife and read on (I will highlight the strong points for you):

Medford, Oregon is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers moderate temperatures year-round. (Consider the lack of snow shoveling you’ll have to do!) You will appreciate our outdoor recreation, such as golf, mountain biking, fishing, boating and skiing, as well as enjoy our first-class day spas, outdoor concerts, award-winning theatre performances, and monthly festivals. Medford, Oregon offers affordable luxury homes, excellent public and private schools, and LOW PROPERTY TAXES; plus there is NO SALES TAX in the state of Oregon! And, for those who enjoy the beach, the Pacific coast is a short 2.5 hour drive from Medford. Come home to Medford! Apply today!

And now, if that still hasn’t convinced you, consider these pros (cons are of no concern here):

~ Gardening in Medford cannot be compared to anywhere else on earth. Prize winning pumpkins, world famous pears and more await the avid gardener and his/her spouse.

~ Cultural activities are as diverse as the world famous Ashland Shakespeare Festival or the Jackson County Draft Horse Pull.

~ Guided tours of Harry and David, where free samples of raspberry shortbread cookies are handed out when the tour ends.

~ Holiday events galore to welcome the Christmas season and more – Gingerbread House Festival, Ashland Christmas Parade with the spikey head snowmen and fun beyond belief.

~ Farmer’s Market through the summer months with fresh fruits and veggies. Dogs have been banned which takes away the fear of being devoured while shopping.

~ Discounts at the supermarket Friday mornings on old breads and meats.

~ Nearby and historical Jacksonville offers a peaceful atmosphere and the Britt Festival with world famous musical artists such as James Taylor.

Now, some may think I’m being selfish and that I just want my doctor back (which I cannot deny as being true and don’t relish the thought of anyone else messing with my brain), but really I’m just worried about you not having the opportunity to touch other’s lives with your calling. At the very least, with all attempts of humor set aside, I hope you know just how much you are missed.

Sherri

Several years back, there was an extremely popular software game called Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego? Originally the game focused on teaching geography and history. It had a catchy name. It was educational. It became popular.

Today, I’d like to introduce you to ‘our version’ of Where In the World Is Carmen Sandiego.

Many of you know that a couple months ago, my doctor and his staff were elected by their overseers at Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, WA, to be shut down, due to lack of funding from Medicare. Over 800 patients who were cared for by this outstanding specialist were left hanging. Due to legalities, he and his staff were unable to comment or answer questions regarding his future plans.

So, here’s what I want to do…

I am in limbo. I don’t know one neurosurgeon from the next in the area I now live in. I know I am not the only one in this predicament. There are many people seeking a quality neurologist and/or movement disorder specialist. Scanning the columns in the phone book doesn’t give you an idea of whether the doctor your finger lands on is quality or not.

If you currently see a neurologist and/or a movement disorder specialist that you consider quality, how about sharing? Please use the comment box and leave their name and city/state and a couple sentences as to why you’d recommend this physician.

People move, doctors leave, etc. and to find a new specialist can be frustrating. I will compile a list of physicians that you think give great care to their patients who continue to battle a movement disorder or neurological disease.

And, if anyone knows where in the world Dr. Anthony Santiago is now practicing – inquiring minds want to know.

Leave information in the comment box. Please include doctor’s name, city and state (complete address would be better, including phone number), reason why you would recommend this physician.

Thanks for the input!

Sherri

I’d like to recommend Dr Anthony Santiago. He is both a Neurologist and Movement Disorder Specialist practicing in Washington, inthe Liberty Lake area. He diagnosed me with Parkinsonism several years ago. He tested me and then diagnosed me for over 45 minutes. He had my records from all the doctors I had seen previously and it seemed as we were talking that in some aspects of my medical history he knew me better than myself. Together with my wife, we really appreciated the thoroughness and patience he displayed while together with us. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking for a neurologist.
Tony Mack

Post note: Thank you, Mr. Mack for your recommendation. I would have to agree with you, as my neurologist is also Dr. Santiago and although not an expert in neurologists, I’d say he has to be the best!

Do you have a specialist that you’d recommend from personal experience? Let us know by sending their name, why you’d recommend them and their location to: sherriwoodbridge@hotmail.com

INLAND NORTHWEST AREA
Anthony J. Santiago , Movement Disorder Specialist
Liberty Lake/Spokane Washington area
Recommendation submitted by S. Woodbridge

“Dr. Santiago, a Movement Disorder Specialist. As a doctor, is the utmost in professionalism and yet practices with compassion and respect for his patients. He becomes a friend while maintaining a doctor/patient relationship. Very knowledgeable in Movement Disorders, he knows first hand the illnesses associated with that division of neurology.

Dr. Santiago will not make you feel rushed. He is thorough and concise, patient and understanding. I highly recommend him if you are in the Inland Northwest area and in need of a doctor specializing in Movement Disorders.”

WESTERN WASHINGTON

After 11 years and bad experiences with doctors, I finally got fed up and went in search of a doctor and or a place I could get good and caring help. I was just getting worse and my doctor seemed to not really be interested in anything I had to say.

…I live in Western Washington State. …It’s been a whole new world for me. I found the Booth Gardner Parkinson Care Center at Evergreen Medical Center in Kirkland, Washington.

They have three MDS doctors there, all of which are highly qualified. They have Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Neuropsychologists all in one place. They are a real team working together to be sure you are getting the best possible care. …they talk to each other and listen to each other – it’s amazing! And with all of this, you feel like and know they really care about each and every patient.

From day one, the minute you arrive you feel welcome and like a part of a special family. They are just one terrific group of caring people.

To give you an example of the quality of doctors they have, I’ll tell you about mine. Her name is Pinky Agarwal. She is a Board Certified Neurologist, fellowship-trained in movement disorders at The Neurological Institute at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York. She is interested and has experience with most movement disorder diseases. …she has been the principal investigator on numerous clinical trials and was previously Directer of Clinical Research at The Colorado Neurological Institute. And the other two doctors that are there are just as well qualified, …plus they are all real people that you can talk to, ask questions and actually get an answer you can understand.

For anyone in Western Washington, who is looking for good doctors caring for Parkinson’s Disease, check this place out. I can’t recommend them highly enough. They have helped me so much and have given me new hope, I will never be able to thank them enough!!!!

You can reach them by phone at i-425-899-3123 or at their web site at: www.evergreenhealthcare.org/neurosciences/parkinson

Hope this will help someone out there as much as it has helped me.

Submitted by: Joanee63, October 21, 2007
Thank you, Joanee!!!

Tags: MovementDisorder Specialists, Booth Gardner Parkinson Care Center, Anthony J. Santiago