You are on the right track. Learn all you can and remember no 2 of us are ever the same. Beware of the internet snake oil salesman who swears he has the cure for PD and the government is forcing them to remain silent. I was a bit reluctant to discuss my issues with people I don't even know. But I must say it has been a blessing.

Welcome Annie, We have been were you are today maybe minus all of you other diagnosis. I have had PD for about 10 or so years. Everyone is so different but there is a lot to learn about this illness. My true symptoms did not come out until I was 10 years into the disease. With the help of some meds I was very controlled. I started on amantadine and then mirapex. Sinemet came later. Take one day at a time ask lots of questions and be informed.

I have found some very supportive people on this site and we talk daily which has made this journey a lot easier for me. One person in particular has gotten me through some of the toughest days of my life. I am thankful to have this person as a confident and mentor. It has made my life a lot better. He understands and listens. I understand and listen, it gives me great comfort each and every day.

I'd spent at least part of a day reading every post that interests you, over the last year or so on this forum. I did that. Then I'd hold off on Mirapex until I could see how much relief you could get from Amantadine. But then that's what I did and I'm so thankful I did. I was "given" a script for Mirapex too, but am so glad I held off. I am about 16 years into this and have some VERY high function days when the weather is in a high pressure pattern and no clouds in sight.
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I am sorry about your diagnosis, but glad you found our group. As everyone said, we have all been where you are now - and we know how scary it is to get the diagnosis. Where do you go from here - this is my advise for now.

1. Just take it day by day and try not to project in the future.
2.. If you don't have a Movement Disorder Specialist neurologist then I would look for one that is covered under you insurance. If you have access to a Movement Disorder Clinic, even better in my opinion as they have a team approach. Google Movement Disorder Clinic near (your city and state) to see what is around you and also take a look at what they have to offer. You can switch to them to get your treatment, or if you like your current doctor, you can continue with them and just see the MDS occasionally to make sure you are staying on top of the latest information and getting the proper treatment. MDS are the specialists for this disease.
3. Stay positive and don't get overwhelmed with all the information available. When I was first diagnosed it took me months to come to grips with it - and I would read a little here and there as I could - because I needed some time to adjust and accept before really delving into the research. Do what is comfortable to you - if it helps to read about it then read about it. If it feels like too much at the moment back away and do something you enjoy for awhile.
4. Start exercising now - every day - whatever you do. The best way to combat this disease is to keep your body moving as much as possible. All of your body!
5. If you are religious, seek help and comfort from God. He will walk this journey with you!
6. Go to this site http://www.parkinson.org/ (National Parkinsons Foundation) At the very top you will see publications - click on that and you will find lots of free publications resources. I strongly encourage you to at least get the one on medications as it explains all of the medicines in a way that is easy to understand.

Hang in there! While we are all different, we all have a great deal in common too and we are here for you - to listen and to share our experiences,, and to help each other.

Hugs!!!

Thank you all for the welcoming comments. I'm going to have questions for my next visit; the first one (diagnosis) just sort of numbed me. You guys are great. Annie

welcome aboard , this is a great site with a lot of good information and great friends. Just remember YOU ARE NOT ALONE ON THIS JOURNEY

Welcome Annie, One thing I have found very helpful beyond our on line friends is a local support group. We have one that meets once a month in White Plains NY. The group has grown over time with new members and care givers all welcome. Tonight happens to be this months meeting. Learn as much as you can. No questions are off limits here and often past posts on a subject are helpful. Good luck and good health. Alex

Hi Annie, welcome to our group, you have already proved that you are a fighter in the truest sense of the word.... and a surviver too... as pd effects each of us in differing ways and is the same with meds and treatments.

I'm approaching my 20th year with pd, and find injecting humour helps me cope better as I go. It's a non-stop vast learning curve, always learning how to deal with all that living with pd intails.

I think Reply #4 CMstanding has hit the bulls-eye.... all have great advice, tips & ideas to help you through... a great move joining this group...

Kindest Regards ~ Dirky ?;O))x