Move On with Parkinson’s

Michael Stanfield
Lulu (2009)
ISBN 9780557064991
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (03/10)


Having read many technical books on Parkinson’s disease, I found this book to be very informative and uplifting for those who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s as well as those caring for them. Many people would be bitter at the lack of treatment and concern of healthcare providers, but the author was very informative in his own description of his travels with Parkinson’s. Through his journey Michael shares the obstacles he encountered and how he maintained his sanity.

In each chapter he discusses his own personal experiences and provides tips for those who are just being diagnosed or are already in this journey. He is witty and yet you can tell he has a passion for helping others. Prior to each chapter he provides uplifting quotes to remind readers that things happen in our life we have no control over.

What I found most surprising while reading this book was the indifference of some of the care providers and the lack of a positive bedside manner. Some of those making diagnoses were not specialized in Parkinson’s disease. How does that happen?

While reading this book, I can imagine Michael standing before the newly-diagnosed and giving them a big hug and his phone number, saying he would be there with them, even though he was in the middle stages of Parkinson’s. I thought some of the book was above and beyond what an author would normally provide- exercises that one could follow with pictures; additional resources; information about medications and the pros and cons; and information about finding a specialist in this area.

“Move On with Parkinson’s” by Michael Stanfield is a wonderful resource for information on early symptoms which are often missed, and the ups and downs of medications. Readers will find how his family helped support him and encouraged him to look at his life in a different, positive way. This is a book I will recommend to my Psychology students.

Make comment on weblog

FTC Disclosure