With April designated as Parkinson's Awareness Month, it's a good time to reflect on the impacts this condition has on many lives in our community and around the world.
As you may recall, Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton had the opportunity to help organize and sponsor two events in May 2023: free showings of a movie called "It's Just Parkinson's." The stars of that movie, John Cullen and his partner, Pattie Stoffel, were in attendance at both events to meet and do Q&A with the audience. I was very honored to have been part of such a meaningful event for our community.
John has since released a book called "Unbreakable," of which he recently sent a copy to me in the mail. It was such an honor to receive and read this gift from a guy who has become a hero of mine. His journey through life before Parkinson’s and after his diagnosis has been nothing short of inspiring. Throughout his life, John has not only managed to climb a mountain, hitchhike twice across the United States, participate in over 200 running and cycling races as well as over a dozen obstacle races, and lead a successful career but he's also faced Parkinson's with a remarkable mindset that transforms adversity into a journey of discovery and resilience.
In "Unbreakable," John shares invaluable insights that resonate deeply, not just with those affected by Parkinson's, but with anyone facing significant life challenges. Unbreakable is filled with many words of inspiration and words of wisdom that I find I can apply to my everyday life. His approach to compartmentalizing daunting tasks and setting manageable goals is a technique that many of us can apply in our daily lives. For instance, by breaking down a marathon into smaller segments, John illustrates how large challenges can become series of smaller, achievable victories.
What struck me most about John’s story is his ability to draw powerful parallels between his adventures and living with Parkinson's Disease. His hitchhiking experiences, where each ride was a step into the unknown, illustrate the unpredictability of life with Parkinson's. Every day presents new challenges and adjustments, much like the unexpected turns on a hitchhiking journey. This outlook not only helps us handle the uncertainties of Parkinson's, but it also makes our daily lives richer, teaching us to adapt and embrace the unexpected.
John’s mantra, "It's Just Parkinson's," is a powerful testament to minimizing the overwhelming nature of the disease. It’s a reminder that while Parkinson's Disease is a significant part of life, it does not define the entirety of one's existence. This mantra, along with his life stories, provides a guide for us on how to tackle personal challenges with courage and determination, inspiring us to keep moving forward no matter what we face.
John's openness about the emotional and psychological struggles, including depression, that come with Parkinson's Disease is deeply impactful. It underscores the importance of seeking support and embracing therapy, not just for physical ailments but for mental health as well. This holistic approach to health is something we at Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton deeply resonate with and advocate in our caregiving philosophies.
This book came to me during a particularly personal time; personal due to some of my own struggles but also shortly after a family member was diagnosed with Parkinson's. The timing was right on time for me and I thank John for showing me the way. John's words serve as a guiding light, helping me to understand and face my own realities as well as the realities of a family member recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. John’s stories of resilience, the importance of community support, and the unyielding spirit to keep fighting are lessons that I hold close and share with both my family and our community at Home Helpers.
As we continue to provide care and support to those with Parkinson's Disease and other conditions, John's life lessons and the "IJP" mindset are invaluable. His journey inspires us to look at our challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Let us all carry forward the message of hope and resilience, remembering that in our battles, whether with Parkinson's or any other adversity, we are not alone.
"Unbreakable" is more than just a book about Parkinson’s—it's a powerful guide to living life with courage, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. This April, let’s all draw a little strength from John Cullen’s remarkable journey and apply the "IJP" mindset to our own lives, ensuring we too can face our challenges head-on, with optimism and strength.
-Jonathan
HOME HELPERS OF BRADENTON
Home Helpers of Bradenton is one of the region's leading home care franchises specializing in comprehensive services for seniors. Home Helpers' sole mission is to make life easier for clients and their families. Based in Bradenton, Florida, the company serves all of Manatee County, including the communities of Anna Maria, Bradenton, Bradenton Beach, Ellenton, Holmes Beach, Lakewood Ranch, Longboat Key, Palmetto, and Parrish. For more information or to request a free in-home care assessment, contact our office at (941) 499-5946 or visit our website at www.homehelpershomecare.com/bradenton.owse