Kimberly Schlapman's Journey: Navigating Parkinson's Disease Care and Advocacy
Kimberly Schlapman, a member of the band Little Big Town, faced the challenge of caring for her mother who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Initially, they attributed her mother's tremor to grief, but it persisted, leading to the diagnosis. With limited knowledge about the disease at the time, Schlapman and her family were unprepared for the level of care her mother would require, which has now escalated to 24-hour care.
As a part of the sandwich generation, Schlapman juggles caring for her mother, who has experienced worsening symptoms, while also balancing work and parenting responsibilities. Despite the challenges, she values the opportunity to care for her mother and recognizes the importance of being there for her loved ones. Initially, her family kept her mother's diagnosis a secret due to feelings of shame, but they now aim to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease and reduce the stigma associated with it.
Schlapman emphasizes the importance of open communication with healthcare providers and being proactive in sharing observations about her mother's condition to ensure she receives the best possible care. By participating in AbbVie's Changing the Tune of Parkinson's Disease campaign, she hopes to encourage others affected by the disease to seek support and advocate for better care. Schlapman and her family are actively involved in her mother's care, including attending all medical appointments and coordinating with healthcare professionals to address her needs effectively.
In the face of the complexities of Parkinson's disease, Schlapman urges individuals and caregivers to speak up about their experiences and symptoms to facilitate tailored treatment plans. By fostering a supportive community and promoting dialogue about the disease, she believes that individuals living with Parkinson's and their families can navigate the challenges more effectively. Through her advocacy efforts, Schlapman aims to empower others to seek the necessary support and resources to manage the impact of Parkinson's disease on their lives.