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HAVE A HAPPY “PARKY” HOLIDAY
By Peggy Willocks 12/2001
Christmas is traditionally a time for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus
Christ. In actuality, the history of Christmas shows it to have been developed
as a pagan holiday.
(See
http://www.swrb.com/newslett/actualNLs/Xmas_ch2.htm ).
Christ was more than likely born in our summer months instead of December,
possibly around July. I’ll not go as far as the linked article to deny the
religious affiliation of the holiday of Christmas, but we all must acknowledge
the extreme associated commercialism.
The tradition of giving gifts has become for some a competitive joke, where
people and families try to “out-give” each other. And the origin of Santa Claus
has often overshadowed the birth of Christ in the eyes of young people. Even
sending holiday greetings has gotten to be pretty distorted.
Christmas to most everyone is all about tradition. Pagan or Christian, some
traditions are worth preserving. As people living with Parkinson’s, however, we
must set limits during this time of year.
The nostalgia of making goodies can create all sorts of sensations. Can’t you
just smell the gingerbread,
peppermint, wassail, and chocolate? And decorating brings glimmer and light into
every corner of our homes.
Family gatherings, parties and activities reserved
for this one time of the year add a festive mood for most. Sharing with the less
fortunate is likewise a tradition worth repetition. But don’t forget that
whether you are the one with Parkinson’s or a friend or family member, there are
a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, Parkies can enjoy most any
part of the holiday traditions, as long as each event begins with “moderation!”
Holiday Greetings: Make this a “family affair,” or a
time for a friend get-together. Pre-printed signatures on cards are easiest or
purchase one of the
inexpensive rubber stamps. Using computer-stored addresses for rapid peel-off
labeling of envelopes.
Form an assembly line with one person stuffing envelopes, one attached
labels, etc. Of course, one
computer-generated greeting is much less costly and safer! Gifts: The gift thing
has really gotten out of hand! For one with a chronic illness, the best
thing to do is begin early. But, if like most of us, December has slipped upon
us and time is of the essence. Shop by mail, or even better, shop by computer.
Security and fast delivery are no problem with most well-known chains. As far as
wrapping gifts, most companies or stores will do so for free or a minimal
additional fee. (And don’t forget those neat bags that some wise person
created!) Our family has done away with the entire gift exchange tradition. We
all have more than we need, so for the past two years we have taken what money
we spent on non-essential items and have used it to make some less fortunate
family or charity much
happier. Parties, activities, and family gatherings: With PD, you must
pick and choose; you cannot do everything! Again, use moderation to avoid
fatigue (and you have a great excuse to graciously decline those things you
really aren’t that fond of anyway.) Let others assist, or downscale your
decorating. If everyone usually gathers at your house, let each one bring a
prepared dish. You can still plan your favorite menu and enjoy some else’s
cooking at the same time. Use disposable dishes or ask everyone to pitch in at
clean-up time.
Foods: Watch that diet during the holidays! Most Parkies
struggle with protein interfering with medication efficiency (and don’t forget
that protein-high foods include not only meats, but also eggnog, dips, cheeses
and other dairy products, nuts, etc.). Constipation can become an enormous
problem and starches (mashed potatoes, gravies, and breads, for starchy
examples). Take advantage of those fresh fruits this time of year and move -
preferably walk -as much as possible. And remember that caffeine not only
interferes with your medication efficiency (either too fast absorption or too
slow), but it can rob you of much needed sleep. Caffeine isn’t just in that
coffee or spiced tea; it’s in that wonderfully disguised temptation called “chocolate.”
Spirits:
Don’t let your holiday be ruined with the intake of spirits (wines, liquor, and
other alcoholic beverages). Most of the anti-parkinsons medications have
warnings to NOT mix with alcoholic beverages! If you question this, simply read
the full contraindications and warnings of each medication by doing a search at www.rxlist.com . Remember, that spiked eggnog can be a double whammy!
Finally,
try to not let the stress of the holidays rob you of the joy of the season. Plan
wisely and remember, you have a chronic illness. Preface all you
do with “moderation,” and I promise you will have a Happy Holiday!
Peggy <:)+>< 
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