As for my sexual orientation, I’m secure. Keep reading, there is a point.

As I type my extended pinkies are flashing like garish neon signs on a night club roof. My grand daughters jumped at the chance to paint “Pa,” while giggling & taunting me.

Nanny asked why I was having them painted. With a blank mind, I rambled, “It’s for Fabs…………..Bella said, DO IT!” So I did. I later had Virginia Fay aka “Bella,” explain to me again. Her husband, soul mate, & lifelong companion, Fabian, aka Fabs, has had Parkinson’s Disease for 20yrs. He is scheduled to have a bilateral DBS in August, 2003.

While in NYC, on vacation, his pinkie was painted. Fabs uses the questions concerning the painted pinky as opportunities to speak on PD, & be a reminder to pray for other Parkies. Much like the red “AIDS” ribbon, & yellow “MIA” ribbon, this is FABS’ Painted Parky Pinky Prayer {PPPP}.

The Parky facing surgery, like Fabs. The Parky, that must decide whether the budget includes food OR meds this month, when there‘s no money for both. The Parky, with a care partner having a bigger medical crises than PD. The Parky, with no care partner, &/or has the battle of loneliness too. The Parky fighting depression, dementia, or afflictions of the mind & spirit, not just the body. The Parky coping with uncertainty & losses, of abilities, finances, employment, or lifelong hobbies & interests. The Parky just like me & many of the Parkies I’m proud to call friends. The list goes on & is too long. Although I’m ashamed I often need a reminder, I hope that seeing my red pinkies is a sufficient reminder for prayer. I know for sure they’ll draw opportunities for sharing my story. Will you join us?

Also, make a monthly donation to your favorite organization, if only $2.00 a month. It’ll put legs on lots of those prayers.

So, paint a pinky. Prayers are needed all over.