February 1, 2026
As most of you already know, it was about a year ago that I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The symptoms had started before that, but it was the cluster of them, plus the recent left side tremor that sent me to the specialist.
A couple of months before that, I was sitting in a coffee shop with our 6 year old granddaughter Hailie, who said,” Grandma, your arm must be cold because it is shivering!”
On the same visit, I was in the backyard with four of the grandchildren.
I suggested: “Let’s set up “goal posts” and play some soccer.” We climbed onto the gazebo to find the balls. With only an 18 inch drop to the grass, I blithely hopped off with a ball. My legs buckled and I landed on my bottom.
Gratefully, I was not hurt but it took all four kids to hoist me to an upright position! “Thanks,” I said, “but I am not hurt. Let’s play ball.”
Hailie’s eyes grew solemn. “Grandma, I think you should just sit in a chair and be our coach.”
Then her five year old sister, Maisie, called to me from the gazebo. She was standing by one of the supporting posts.
“Grandma, next time, so you don’t fall, hang on to this post.” Then she showed me where to put each of my hands and feet to keep me from falling.
It was worth the fall to see her thoughtfulness and wisdom!
