Thursday, September 29, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU MIRACLES AND MIGHTY DEEDS

 A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is based on medical history and a thorough neurological examination. Sometimes a doctor may check your sense of smell. Sometimes, your doctor will have you try a medicine for Parkinson's disease. If that medicine helps your symptoms, it may help the doctor find out if you have Parkinson's disease.There are no lab tests that can diagnose Parkinson's disease and there is no known cure. But Parkinson's disease can affect many aspects of a person's daily life and give him so much reason to despair and give up. However, with careful planning and activity moderation, the effects of Parkinson's can become much less stressful and intrusive. It also entails praying for healing through miracles and mighty deeds.


                                          The miracle of John Paul II: Marie Simon- Pierre


SCRIPTURES:

" When it was evening, they brought him many who were possessed by demons, and he drove out the spirits by a word and cured all the sick to fulfill what had been said by Isaiah the prophet: "He took away our infirmities and bore our diseases."...
                                
..." A woman suffering hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the tassel on his cloak. She said to herself, ' If only I can touch his cloak, I shall be cured.' Jesus turned around and saw he, and said, 'Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you,' And from that hour the woman was cured."...
    
..." And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed [him], crying out, 'Son of David, have pity on us!' When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, 'Do you beleive that I can do this?' 'Yes, Lord,' they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said,'Let it be done for you according to your faith.' And their eyes were opened."...
  
..."Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd."...

..." Jesus sent out these twelve after instructing them thus, ' Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Smaaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons.'"

                                        Matthew 8:16-17; 9:20-22, 27-30,35-36; 10:5-8

PRAYER:

PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
 THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up so that I may walk again
And not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.

Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.
We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.

ACTION:


Today I will take that extra step and not be afraid. I will recite the prayer for healing of parkinson's disease 3x a day,i.e., when I wake up in the morning, after my midday meal and before retiring at night. I will register and attend the first convention on Pinoy PD and socialize with other Pinoy PD's so we can share each others joys and sorrows.


P.S. FREE REGISTRATION EXTENDED! Register for FREE on or before October 7, 2011.


P.P.S. Register for a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT in the workshop to a LIMITED NUMBER of participants on or before October 7, 2011.


P.P.P.S. Submit REGISTRATION DETAILS (Name, Age, Contact number and E-mail address) on or before October 7, 2011 to avail of FREE REGISTRATION and send via email to drajoy31@yahoo.com / drajoy31@gmail.com


Tuesday, September 27, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU MEDICINE (DOPAMINE AGONIST)

It is a known fact the Parkinson’s disease or PD has no cure.  In the early stages of uncomplicated Parkinson’s disease, the use of pharmacological agents is still the primary mode of treatment and also the most common therapy for PD. Aside from levodopa, dopamine agonists are the other recommended antiparkinson drugs during the early stages of the disease. There are 3 dopamine agonists which are commercially available in the Philippines, namely:

 BROMOCRIPTINE MESYLATE
(PARLODEL)
NOVARTIS HEALTHCARE
[ZUELLIG] {P141.50}

 PRAMIPEXOLE diHCl
(SIFROL)
BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM
[METRO DRUG]
{P151.00} of 1 mg/tab

 PIRIBEDIL
(TRIVASTAL RETARD 50)
SERVIER
[ZUELLIG]
{P38.50}

LEGEND:

GENERIC NAME
(BRAND NAME)
MANUFACTURER
[DISTRIBUTOR]
{SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE}

However, I will only discuss one of the three dopamine agonists , PRAMIPEXOLE, which is a non-ergot derivative.

What are the INDICATIONS for the use of pramipexole?

1. Treatment of signs and symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson's disease
2. As monotherapy or in combination with levodopa
3. Symptomatic treatment of idiopathic restless leg syndrome

What is the usual DOSAGE of pramipexole?:

1. Parkinson's disease

 Week 1  - 0.125 mg 3x a day
 Week 2  - 0.25 mg 3x a day
 Week 3  - 0.5 mg 3x a day
 Maximum 4.5 mg/day

2. Restless Leg Syndrome

Step 1: 0.125 mg
Step 2: 0.25 mg
Step 3: 0.5 mg
Step 4: 0.75 mg (Maximum dose)
All doses taken once daily 2-3 hours before bedtime. If needed, titrate to each step every 4-7 days.

How do you ADMINISTER oral Pramipexole?

Pramipexole may also be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset.

What are the SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS in the use of parmipexole?

The dose must be reduced in patients with renal impairment or creatinine clearance (CrCl) of less
than 50 ml/min.

What are the ADVERSE REACTIONS of pramipexole? (DiCoFISHPEN)

1. Dizziness
2. Dyskinesia
3. Constipation
4. Confusion
5. Falling asleep during activities of daily living
6. Insomnia
7. Somnolence
8. Hallucination
9. Peripheral edema
10. Nausea

What are the PREPARATIONS of pramipexole?

Pramipexole is available in either 250 mcg/tab or 1 mg/tab.

To learn more about the recent updates in the diagnosis and management of Parkinson's disease, attend the first annual convention of Pinoy PD, entitled: "HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE and NUTRITION).


P.S. Register for FREE on or before September 30, 2011.

P.P.S. Register for a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT in the workshop to a LIMITED NUMBER of participants on or before September 30, 2011.

P.P.P.S. Submit REGISTRATION DETAILS (Name, Age, Contact number and E-mail address) on or before September 30, 2011 to avail of FREE REGISTRATION and send via email to drajoy31@yahoo.com / drajoy31@gmail.com


HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU KINDNESS

We are glad to announce that through the kindness and generosity of some individuals, we are offering the convention on "HEALING OF PAKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION)" for FREE with a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT to a LIMITED NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS on or before SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.

SCRIPTURES:


"Thus says the Lord: Let not the wise man glory in his kingdom, nor the strong man glory in his strength, nor the rich ma glory in his riches; But rather, let him who glories, glory in this, that in his prudence he knows me, Knows that I, the Lord, bring about KINDNESS, justice and uprightness on the earth; For with such am I pleased, says the Lord.

                                                                         Jeremiah 9: 22-23


"A slave of the Lord should not quarrel, but should be gentle with everyone, able to teach, tolerant, correcting opponents with KINDNESS. It may be that God will grant them repentance that leads to knowledge of the truth, and that they may return to their senses out of the devil's snare, where they are entrapped by him, for his will."
                                                                        2 Timothy 2:24-26


"But the Lord's KINDNESS is forever, toward the faithful from age to age. He favors the children's children of those who keep his covenant, who take care to fulfill its precepts."

                                                                        Psalm 103:17-18



PRAYER:


Dearest God, the Father, thank You, for showing us Your endless kindness through other people's deeds. Thank you, Jesus, God the Son, for giving us the courage to pursue the Lord's plan for our lives. May God, the Holy Spirit, grant us the wisdom and the knowledge so that we will know what to say, when to say and how to say the words so we can bring more people closer to God through our generosity. Mother Mary, thank you for your intercession as we await the healing of our mind, body and soul.



ACTION:


Today, I will extend my own act of kindness to anyone who crosses my path through a winning smile, a sincere praise and a shared blessing.


P.S. Register for FREE on or before September 30, 2011.

P.P.S. Register for a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT in the workshop to a LIMITED NUMBER of participants on or before September 30, 2011.

P.P.P.S. Submit REGISTRATION DETAILS (Name, Age, Contact number and E-mail address) on or before September 30, 2011 to avail of FREE REGISTRATION and send via email to drajoy31@yahoo.com / drajoy31@gmail.com

                                               





Saturday, September 24, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU GOOD NUTRITION

(Second of a 3-part article series)


Nutrients Found In Plant Food
By Nona Lema
   



Nutrients refer to all things that make up how healthy food is - - like vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein and fats.  My advice to everyone in general is, always incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals.  This is the best way to ensure that you are getting enough of many nutrients.

Sometimes, it can be mind-boggling the way daily nutritional requirements are written.  If you’re like me, who go crazy with all the nutritional statistics and figures, then the best thing to remember is this:  have a ‘balanced’ amount of all the different types of natural food available in nature - -that’s all.  Make sure to eat a daily serving from each food group such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes.  Very simple formula.  You can never go wrong that way.

Now, speaking of nutrients for PD patients, experts say  focus on calcium and vitamin D (for maintaining bone health) and antioxidants (for helping reduce the loss of dopamine-producing neurons).

In other words,  feed them all things naturally healthy but most specially foods that are rich in  calcium and antioxidants.

Good sources of calcium are:  dairy, green leafy vegetables, almonds, pistaccio, molasses, wheat, brewer’s yeast, broccoli, cabbage, okra, carob, oats, sesame seeds, turnips and tofu.

Good sources of antioxidants are:  nuts, dark-colored fruits, leafy green vegetables, tomatoes, broccoli, red kidney beans, pinto beans.

Experts say an average adult need 1000-1500 mg of calcium and roughly the same amount of antioxidants a day.

To translate, for breakfast serve the PD patient an average serving of hot or warm milk, or fruit milk shake or fruit smoothie such as banana, avocado, papaya, melon, etc.  One important thing you should remember about milk is that it is best to be boiled first in order to predigest it so it is easily absorbable. So in milkshakes/smoothie, boil the milk first, let it cool before blending with the fruits.
The worst thing to take is cold milk, as in the form of iced milk shakes or drinks.  These are actually modern Western concoctions that have no bearing in eastern nutritional and medicinal food. Cold milk is not only hard to digest, it is also mucus-forming. Milk  drinks should always be taken hot or warm.

In oatmeal or cereals, boil the milk first before adding the oats or cereals. For sweetener try switching to molasses.




For variety you can also serve grilled cheese or just plain cheese sandwich; or pasta with cheese or yoghurt and fruits - -always have a lot of fruits.  Interchangeably,  serve fried/plain rice with tofu or tokwa and different kinds of gulay dish.

For lunch and dinner:  As a rule, have a variety of talbos/dahon every mealtime - - talbos ng kamote, sili, ampalaya, kalabasa, sayote, sitaw; dahon ng malunggay, kangkong, alugbati, talinum, spinach, etc. Serve them as native vegetable salad or sabaw (soup).  In your regular ginisang gulay or ginataang gulay, grain/pasta or noodle dish, always incorporate some form of leafy vegetable.  And then for added flavor, nutrients and texture, add tofu or tokwa.

Tofu or tokwa  is the best meatless substitute.  It can be mixed in sauces, pasta, chilis, stirfries, etc because it is so close in texture to meat and a rich source of nearly all nutrients that your PD patient needs.

For PD patients the best way to have nuts or seeds is to have a  sprinkling of  it. 

In my family, one favorite regular table item is ‘sesame salt’ or ‘peanut salt’.  To prepare this,  roast one cup of sesame seeds or fry one cup of peanuts.  Blend in a blender with a little salt.  Put in a shaker or small bottle container.  Sprinkle on your rice and pass around during mealtime. My children just love it.  An appetizing and nutritious way to have your daily dose of calcium and antioxidant without your even knowing it!

And then for dessert you can have blueberries.  Blueberries are a little bit expensive but once in a while have them in muffins or pies or tarts. Again, a delicious way of ensuring that your PD patient gets their needed nutrients. Of course our wide variety of local fruits may also be prepared in so many delicious dessert dishes.  So as I have said before, try to be creative about it.

And lastly, In one vegetarian cookbook written by Jeanne Lemlin, she mentioned some tips  about the ‘secret to a relaxed cooking’.  I’d like to share them with you.  She says: “have all the ingredients you will need gathered together in front of you.  Have all the dishes or pans taken out. Have all the precooking done ahead of time, for example, peeling and chopping of vegetables, measuring, etc.” To which I’d like to add: take a deep breath and pause for a minute of  relaxation.




Saturday, September 17, 2011

How Can A Vegetarian Diet Be Of Help To PD Patients? (Part 1)





By Nona Lema


(First of a 3-part article series)


Introduction




Hi! I’m Nona Lema. I’m not a doctor nor a nutritionist. At home, I’m simply a wife and a mother who loves to cook delicious and healthy vegetarian meals for my family - - traditional Filipino food that we, as a family, have enjoyed eating together for the past 30 years.



In the following article series, I’d like to show you, in simple language, the direct link between PD and the vegetarian diet. Anyone who is interested in cooking healthy food for their PD patient will see and understand the connection very clearly. Veggie food and PD are compatible on these basic points: a) fiber, b)nutrients, AND c) protein.



Of course there have been many medical and nutritional researches/statistics made to prove that a vegetarian diet is indeed excellent for PD patients. But the question is, how do you translate these informations into a delicious meal? In other words, when you go to the kitchen to cook lunch or dinner for your loved one with PD, what do you cook? And why?



This article series is meant to educate, to share, most of all to show love and compassion to those afflicted with PD - - by showing how you can prepare nice, home-cooked meals that they too can enjoy. Happy veggie cooking!





Fiber Rich Food



It is very important that caregivers of PD patients understand very well the need for more fiber intake. What has fiber got to do with PD? PD is a progressive neurological disorder that results in the death of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Loss of dopamine affects movements. So because PD patients are generally “slow mo”, therefore they also generally suffer from chronic constipation. Fiber is beneficial in preventing constipation.



Now, this is another important thing caregivers should understand - - Fiber is found ONLY in plant food. Foods containing fiber include fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains. Meat, fish, chicken and eggs do not contain fiber AT ALL.



We Filipinos are very fortunate to have been blessed with so much variety of different fruits and vegetables, our very own prutas at gulay, - - delicious, juicy, succulent, naturally healthy; pagkaing butil-- whole grains and nuts, beans and legumes that are so fragrantly wholesome, so full of rich, nutritious taste.



To be really healthy, experts say you need to consume about 25-40 gms of fiber everyday. For PD patients, a little more, maybe 50-60 gms.



To translate, it means for breakfast, maybe you can prepare for them one serving of oatmeal or cracked wheat or farina (also known as sooji), cooked with milk and sweetened with honey or muscovado sugar, a slice of buttered wheat bread toast or fried tofu sandwich. Be sure to always feed them with lots of fruits in season – bananas, pineapple, papaya, chico, etc, sliced up fresh or juiced . Root crops are also a very nutritious and fibrous breakfast item. You can serve them camote, gabi, kamoteng kahoy, ube - -cooked in many different traditional kakanin or ginataan style. Sometimes you can serve them plain or fried rice with scrambled tofu instead of bacon and scrambled eggs.



Tofu or tokwa is sometimes called the ‘vegetarian’s best friend’. It is a by-product of soy beans, sometimes called ‘the poor man’s protein’; it is such a versatile food and so protein-rich. It has been eaten for thousands of years in most Asian cultures that were traditionally vegetarian. Tofu or tokwa may be substituted to almost anything that you would need meat, fish, chicken and eggs for.



So for now, a good starting point in adapting a vegetarian or at least a ‘semi-veg’ diet is to try to eat meat less often. Substitute as often as you can with healthier, more fibrous food alternatives. All your all-time favorite meat, fish, chicken and egg dishes such as pork or chicken adobo, arroz caldo, escabeche, pork menudo, beef caldereta, etc.may be prepared the healthy meatless way. How? Simply substitute with tofu or tokwa. Or for a fancier version, try substituting with gluten, and/or different varieties of ‘veggie cold cuts’ - - veggie meat, veggie sausage/hotdog, veggie tapa (all available at popular vegetarian food stores).



Soups may be prepared from mashed or pureed or blended vegetables; or mixed with grain pasta or noodles. But then again, instead of meat, fish or chicken soup stock, try substituting with cream of vegetable powder or canned soup, vegetable bouillon or any kind of plant-based seasoning or appetizer.



For lunch and dinner, you can prepare all kinds of ginisang gulay, or ginataang gulay - -sitaw, kalabasa, talong, upo, okra, ampalaya, bichuelas, pechay, repolyo,etc. It’s also a good habit to always feed them kamatis, either cooked or fresh because it’s a fiber rich food. With your variety of gulay, simply make a gentle, healthful twist - -instead of sauteing with pieces of pork, shrimp, chicken or eggs, again try mixing slices of fried tofu or tokwa.



Why is there a need to gradually avoid (if possible) all kinds of meat food? Because, as I have said earlier, all meat food have ZERO fiber. It means meat food does not contain moisture and bulk. Meaning, therefore, that it does not make the stool soft and easy to dispose. On the contrary, it makes the stool become even more compacted and dry. That is why, if the PD patient’s diet is meat-heavy, they will have a tendency to suffer from chronic constipation.



So again, try to remember - -the only way to get good fiber is to eat vegetable food.



As far as cooking veggie food for your PD patient goes, be creative. Be innovative. Read up on a lot of vegetarian recipes. Familiarize yourself with the different ways of substituting your meat food with vegetable food.


One last piece of advice:


If there’s extra attention and care there in your cooking, the PD patient will feel it. If the cooking is done grudgingly, or with anger or contempt or just because it’s a routine paid job, then the PD patient will also feel it. So the least we can do for them is, try to cook delicious meals—and cook them with genuine care and concern.






Note:
Nona Lema is the author “GULAY”, the best selling Filipino Vegetarian Recipebook, available at National Bookstore and Powerbooks

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION)

As we approach the Feast Day of Blessed John Paul II on October 22, 2011, we are reminded that we are just six weeks away from the main event in the life of a Filipino with Parkinson's disease or a  PINOY PD, i.e, the "HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION), the First Annual Convention of Pinoy PD slated in Makati City on the same day.



For the past three weeks, I have discussed some of the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit by quoting the Scriptures from the Holy Bible. I have also tackled one of the medications commonly used as a first line treatment for Parkinson's disease which is levodopa based on its content, indication, dosage, administration, contraindication, special precaution, adverse reaction, drug interaction, preparation and price. I have also enumerated some of the benefits of regular exercise for the person with  Parkinson’s disease, the general recommendations on how to get started, the  general safety measures as well as the target of an ideal exercise program.



As a fitting introduction to one of the key resource speakers in the upcoming event, I have requested Ms. Nona Lema, a vegetarian and meditation expert, to be my guest writer for the next 3 weeks. It will be a 3-part article series on "How Can A Vegetarian Diet Be of Help To PD Patients?"



The First Annual Convention of Pinoy PD aims to  impart a general knowledge on the diagnosis and holistic management of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) among Filipinos through G-MEN (God, Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition).



Below are the Programme  and Venue details:











If you want to take part actively in the said convention, please register and submit your details ASAP.



P.S. Register for FREE (including lunch, 2 snacks, seminar kit) on or before September 30, 2011.



P.P.S.  Get a GUARANTEED SEAT and SLOT to the workshop to a LIMITED NUMBER of participants if you register on or before September 30, 2011.



P.P.P.S. Send your registration details via e-mail: drajoy31@gmail.com / drajoy31@yahoo.com on or before September 30, 2011 to be counted.






HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU PATIENCE


One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is HEALING. While PATIENCE is another fruit of the Holy Spirit. Anyone who is suffering from any ailment, more so if the illness has no cure, is always searching for a possible means of healing. The quest for a complete treatment takes its toll not just on the sick person but on his family as well. It also becomes a test of patience.


Such is the case of Parkinson's disease (PD) which is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the degeneration (dysfunction and death) of neurons within the brain. The neurons are specialized cells that make dopamine, a chemical that transmits signals to coordinate movement, which is depleted in PD. PD is both chronic and progressive. It persists over a long period of time and the symptoms grow worse over time. Unfortunately, PD has no cure so its management is geared towards delaying the worsening of the signs and symptoms and alleviating any pain and discomfort from the illness. Hence, a holistic approach encompasses the "Healing of parkinson's disease thru G-MEN (God, Medicine, Exercise and Nutrition)".










SCRIPTURES:


HEALING


"Heal me, Lord, that I may be healed; save me, that I may be saved, for it is you whom I praise."

                                                              JEREMIAH 17:14




"Bless the Lord, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God, Who pardons all your sins, heals all your ills, Deliver your life from the pit, surrounds you with love and compassion, Fills your days with good things; your youth is renewed like the eagle's."

                                                                PSALMS 103:1-3



"Therefore, confess you sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful."

                                                               JAMES 5: 16



PATIENCE



"We urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, cheer the fainthearted, support the weak, be patient with all. See that no one returns evil for evil, rather, always seek what is good [both] for each other and for all. Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit."

                                                           1 THESSALONIANS 5:14-19



"Therefore, from the day we heard this, we do not cease praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding to live in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in every good work bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with every power, in accord with his glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light."

                                                           COLOSSIANS 1:9-12



"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. And over all these put on love, that is the bond of perfection."

                                                           COLOSSIANS 3:12-14



"Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, [love] is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."
                
                                                          1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-7



"Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives  the early and the late rains. You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brothers, about one another, that you may not be judged... Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Indeed we call blessed  those who have persevered. You have heard of the perseverance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, because the Lord is compassionate and merciful."

                                                          JAMES 5:7-11


PRAYER:



God the Father, strengthen my faith in You as I wait for the healing that you promised. Jesus, God the Son, give me the courage to go out of my comfort zone as I seek new means of healing. God the Holy Spirit, enlighten me with wisdom that I may know which will work best for me and my family. Mama Mary, thank you for your intercession as I patiently wait for God's plan for my life.


ACTION:



Today, I will patiently adopt a healthy diet, lifestyle and belief for the healing of my Parkinson's disease.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU FAITH




Last September 8, 2011, we have celebrated the Feast Day of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Today, September 15, 2011, is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Sorrows. May we be like Mother Mary in having an unwavering Faith in God and surrendering ourselves to God's will and plan for our lives.

FAITH CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS!

FAITH CAN HEAL!



SCRIPTURES:



"Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen."

                                                                   HEBREW 11:1



"We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God adn Father, knowing, brothers loved by God, how you were chosen."
1 THESSALONIANS 1:2-4



"For all of youa re childresn of the light and children of the day> We are not of the night or of darkness. Therefore, let us not sleep as the rest do, but let us stay alert and sober. Those who sleep go to sleep at night, and those who are drunk get drunk at night. But since we are of the dday, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love and the lemet that is the hope for salvation. For God did not destine us for wrath, but togain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live together with him. Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, as indeed you do."

1 THESSALONIANS 5:5-11



"We ought to thank God always for you, brothers, as is fitting, because your faith flourishes ever more, and the love of every one of you for one another grows ever greater. Accordingly, we ourselves boast of you in the churches of God regarding your endurance and faith in all your persecutions and the afflictions you endure."
                                                        
                                                        2 THESSALONIANS 1:3-4



PRAYER:


May God the Father grant us a steady heart and a watchful eye as we face the trials of each day. May God the Son give us the strength and the courage to walk along the path of righteousness and love. May God the Holy Spirit provide us with wisdom and knowledge to optimize the healing of our Parkinson's disease. All these we ask through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary. Amen



ACTION:


Today, I will practice the ten basic exercises of a PD patient and believe that everyday I will perform better and not deteriorate.


Tuesday, September 13, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU EXERCISE


Exercise plays a key role in the management of Parkinson's disease (PD). If done regularly, it may slow down the progression of the disease. It usually includes stretching, strength training and aerobic activities. An exercise program should be individualized and should be based on the patient's ability level so as to maintain flexibility, mobility and general well-being. It is usually recommended by the rehabilitation specialist who works hand in hand with a physical therapist.



Dr. M. Schenkman, et. al, did a a randomized, controlled trial in 1998 at the Duke University  Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina, USA, on how exercise can improve spinal flexibility and function for people with Parkinson's disease. The study showed improvements in axial mobility and physical performance within a 10-week exercise program for people in the early and midstages of PD.


In another study done by Dr. Victur Lun, et.al, in 2005, the effects of a self-supervised home exercise program were compared with the effects of a physiotherapist-supervised exercise program on the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease. There was note of a statistifically significant improvement on the motor symptoms for both programs with similar effectiveness.



The above findings are important in the counseling of PD patients regarding adjunctive treatment of motor symptoms of PD with exercise. 







Some of the benefits of regular exercise for the person with Parkinson’s disease are as follows:
 Improved control over gross motor movements, such as walking
 Increased muscle strength and flexibility
 Increased cardiovascular fitness
 Improved coordination and balance
 Improved posture
 Reduced muscle cramping
 Greater confidence in performing daily activities
 Reduced stress levels
 Improved joint mobility



General recommendations on getting started are the following:
 Spend at least 15 minutes of exercise every day.
 A thorough stretching program that targets each joint and muscle group is recommended.
 Warm up and cool down for a few minutes like marching in place or stretching.
 Begin with the easiest exercises first and slowly perform the more difficult exercises as your
fitness increases.
 Try to execute each movement to the best of your ability.
 Stop and rest if you get tired at any point during your exercise program to prevent worsening of
your symptoms.
 Stop performing any exercise that causes you pain.
 If you get tired easily, try exercising earlier in the day.
 Try to make exercising fun by exercising with others or playing your favourite music.



If you are at risk of falling or freezing (sudden inability to move), general safety suggestions include the following:
 Sit down when you do your exercises.
 Grab a chair when performing standing exercises.
 Avoid floor exercises if you can’t get up by yourself.
 Don't exercise alone even at home so you can ask help if necessary.
 Exercise with others.
 Call for assistance from a family member or friend.


Aim to build up to 8–10 repetitions of each exercise. Ideally, the exercise program should target the following:
 Overall fitness
 Muscle flexibility
 Legs
 Head and shoulders
 Arms and torso
 Face
 Hands and wrists


References:


1. Movement Disorders Volume 20, Issue 8, pages 971–975, August 2005
2. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1998 Oct;46(10):1207-16.



Wednesday, September 7, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU JOY

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The start of the ---ber months herald the unofficial advent of the Christmas season in the Philippines, ours being the longest in the world. We smile when we hear Christmas songs being played in the radio or even in some department stores and shopping malls. Some even go as far us displaying Christmas decors. Christmas brings with it joy for it signifies the birthday of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ. It will bring forth happiness, more so if it would provide healing of the soul and one's ailment like Parkinson's disease. That will be a great early Christmas present.

SCRIPTURES:

 "... there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create; For I create Jerusalem to be a joy and its people to be a delight; I will rejoice in Jerusalem and exult in my people. No longer shall the  sound of weeping be heard there, or the sound of crying; No longer shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not round out his full lifetime..."

                                                                         ISAIAH 65:18-20


 "As a mother comforts her son, so will I comfort you; in Jerusalem you shall find your comfort. When you see this, your heart shall rejoice, and your bodies flourish like the grass;  The Lord's power shall be known to his servants, but to his enemies, his wrath."
  
                                                                         ISAIAH 66:13-14


"Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
   
                                                                        PHILIPPIANS 4:4-7


 "Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus."
                                                                      1 THESSALONIANS 5:16-18


PRAYER:

 PRAYER FOR HEALING OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF BLESSED JOHN PAUL II

When my legs are frozen in place,
May God the Father push me and remind me
To lift my toes up so that I may walk again
And not be afraid.

When I feel like falling or as my posture stoops,
May Jesus Christ, God the Son, break my fall
And catch me as I move forward
With my legs braced and feet wide apart.

When my movement is slow and I hesitate,
May God the Holy Spirit enlighten my path,
Broaden my horizon and show me the way
That I will be more agile and sure in my steps and bearing.

When my hands and feet are shaking, or my chin trembles,
And my voice weakens as I speak,
May Mother Mary embrace me to calm me and assure me
That everything will be okay and I can rest in her arms and wait
Until everything is still and steady and I am in peace
As my voice grows strong and clear.

Forgive me, God the Father, for all my sins
Heal me, God the Son, from my Parkinson’s disease
Bless me, God the Holy Spirit, with wisdom and knowledge
Love me, Mother Mary, so that I can love and serve others despite my PD.

We ask all these, through the intercession of Blessed John Paul II.
Amen.

Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…

Blessed John Paul II, Pray for us.


ACTION: Today, I will be a blessing to someone by spreading joy through a sincere smile and greeting!

Sunday, September 4, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN(GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE AND NUTRITION)


Are you like an old truck with engine trouble running at 0 RPMS?


Or are you like a robot operating at low battery or even empty battery? You might have Parkinson's Disease or PD. The hallmark in the diagnosis of PD resides on the presence of the 4 cardinal motor symptoms or RPMS, namely, RESTING TREMORS, POSTURAL INSTABILITY, MUSCLE RIGIDITY AND SLOW MOVEMENTS. It's time to be informed! If you indeed have PD, how can you and your family cope with your illness? Here's how:
Yes! There is hope for those with PD.

Come and join us in the FIRST ANNUAL CONVENTION to find out how.

Be an EARLY-BIRD, and register at discounted rates.

P.S. Register between September 16 -30, 2011 and enjoy 50 % savings!

P.P.S. Register on or before September 15, 2011 and enjoy BIGGER SAVINGS OF 70%!

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU MEDICATIONS (LEVODOPA)

The most common treatment for Parkinson's disease is the use of medications. The goal of therapy is to provide the brain chemical (neurotransmitter), dopamine, in adequate amounts so as to prevent the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. An antiparkinson drug is usually started when symptoms become disabling or disrupt a person's daily activities.

There are specific instructions in taking the drugs for Parkinson's disease. It is important to follow your doctor's prescriptions about how and when to take your drugs so that they will be effective and safe. You cannot increase, decrease or change the drug without your doctor's knowledge because it may cause more problems in the control of symptoms.

Therapy depends on a person's symptoms and age and how the person responds to a certain drug. Medications often improve symptoms, but they also may cause side effects. It may take awhile to find the best combination of drugs for each particular individual. Several drugs may be used to treat Parkinson's disease at different stages of the disease.

The treatment of early Parkinson's starts with one or more of these medicines, which are commercially available in the Philippines:
 Levodopa and carbidopa
 Dopamine agonists (pramipexole, bromocriptine mesylate, piribedil)
 COMT inhibitors (entacapone)
 MAO-B inhibitors (selegiline)
 Amantadine
 Anticholinergic agents (biperiden Hcl)

 Levodopa is thought to be the most effective drug for controlling symptoms of Parkinson's disease and for many years was the preferred drug for treating newly diagnosed patients. However, long-term use of levodopa at high dosages often leads to motor complications that can be difficult to manage. The decision about whether it is better to use levodopa or other antiparkinson drug like a dopamine agonist as the first treatment has not been fully resolved. The decision on the drug of choice will most likely be different for each person. It is imperative to consult your doctor to find the medicines that work the best for you. 

LEVODOPA/CARBIDOPA 

 (SINEMET) MSD/INVIDA [ZUELLIG] {P 49.00}
 (TIDOMET/TIDOMET CR) TORRENT [METRO DRUG] {P 49.75}

 LEGEND: (BRAND NAME) MANUFACTURER [DISTRIBUTOR] {SRP: levodopa 100mg/carbidopa 25 mg TAB}

 PREPARATION/CONTENTS per tablet:
 Levodopa 100 mg/carbidopa 25 mg
 Levodopa 250 mg/carbidopa 25 mg
 Levodopa 200 mg/carbidopa 50 mg(CR) or Controlled Release

 INDICATIONS: Treatment of symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson's disease(paralysis agitans) Treatment of symptoms of postencephalitic parkinsonism, which follows injury to nervous system by carbon monoxide and manganese intoxication Patients who are taking vitamin preparations containing vit. B6 Reduce "offtime" in patients previously treated with levodopa/ decarboxylase inhibitor preparations

 DOSAGE:

 FOR SINEMET: Sinemet 25/100 1 tab TID. Maximum: 8 tabs Sinemet 25/250 1/2 tab once-BID. Maximum: 8 tabs Transfer from levodopa: Stop levodopa 12 hr before Sinemet is started (24 hr for CR preparation) Patient taking > 1,500 mg levodopa: Initially 1 tab Sinemet TID-QID Patient taking < 1,500 mg levodopa: Initially 1 tab Sinemet 25/100 TID-QID. Sinemet CR 1 CR tab BID-TID, maximum dose 600 mg/day of levodopa or to be given at intervals < 6 hrs.

 FOR TIDOMET: Individualized dosage 

ADMINISTRATION OF ORAL DOSAGE/PRE- & POST-PRANDIAL ADVICE: Take on an empty stomach if possible. If GI distress occurs, take with food. CT tab: Swallow whole, do not chew/crush. 50/200 CR tab may be halved along the score-line only.

 CONTRAINDICATIONS: 
 Narrow-angle glaucoma
 Undiagnosed skin lesions or history of melanoma
 Hypersensitivity to any component of this product

 SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS: Treatment of drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Monitor for melanomas frequently and on a regular basis. Perform periodic skin exam. Patients previously treated with levodopa alone. CV disease including history of MI or arrhythmias or pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, renal, hepatic or endocrine disease, history of psychoses or convulsions, or wide-angle glaucoma. History of active peptic ulcer. Absorption of L-dopa may be impaired in some patients on a high protein diet. Not recommended for children < 18 yrs. Pregnancy, lactation.

 ADVERSE REACTIONS:
 SINEMET: Dyskinesia including choreiform, dystonic and other involuntary movements and nausea. Pathological gambling, hypersexuality and increased libido. Very rarely, excessive daytime somnolence and sudden sleep onset episodes, paresthesia, psychotic episodes. Muscle twitching and blepharospasm. Syncope, chest pain, anorexua, CV, GI, hematologic, hypersensitivity, nervous/psychiatric, resp., dermatological and urogenital effects.
 TIDOMET Choreiform, dystonia, involuntary movements, mental changes, depression w/ or w/o development of suicidal tendencies and dementia. Nausea, orthostatic hypotension, brsadykinetic episodes, anorexia, vomiting and dizziness.

 DRUG INTERACTIONS: Discontinue MAOIs 2 weeks prior to therapy with Sinemet(except low doses of selective MAO-B inhibitors), tricyclic antidepressants, antihypertensives, phenothiazines, butyrophenones, phenytoin, papavarine, INH.

 REFERENCES:
 1. http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/parkinsons-disease-medications
2. MIMS.com

Friday, September 2, 2011

HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU KNOWLEDGE

Knowledge is the second gift of the Holy Spirit.

"For the Lord gives wisdom, from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; He has counsel in store for the upright, he is the shield of those who walk honestly, Guarding the paths of justice, protecting the way of his pious ones. Then you will understand rectitude and justice, honesty, every good path; For wisdom will enter your heart, knowledge will please your soul, discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you."

                                                                        PROVERBS 2:6-11


"Happy the man who meditates on wisdom, and reflects on knowledge; Who ponders her ways in his heart, and understands her paths; Who pursues her like a scout, and lies in wait at her entry way; who peeps through her windows, and listens at her doors; Who encamps near her house, and fastens his tent pegs next to her walls; Who pitches his tent beside her, and l, and lives as her welcome neighbor; Who builds his nest in her leafage, and lodges in her branches; Who takes shelter with her from the heat, and dwells in her home. 

                                                                        SIRACH 14:20-27






Every patient with Parkinson's disease(PD) as well as his/her caregivers, must be armed with knowledge in the management of PD. The healing of Parkinson's disease does not reside in just one aspect of a person's health status but should be holistic. This is the objective of the forthcoming First Annual Convention entitled: HEALING OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE THRU G-MEN (GOD, MEDICINE, EXERCISE, NUTRITION) on October 22, 2011 in Makati City. For the eight succeeding weeks, the following topics will be discussed: spiritual gifts and fruits of the spirit; the antiParkinson's drugs which are commercially available in the Philippines; the physical activities that a person with Parkinson's disease can practice and the nutritional benefits of a vegetarian diet.


SPIRITUAL GIFTS AND FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT

"There are different kinds of SPIRITUAL GIFTS but the same Spirit, there are different forms of Service but the same Lord, there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit. To one is Given thorugh the Spirit the expression of WISDOM; to another the expression of KNOWLEDGE according to the same Spirit; to another FAITH by the same Spirit; to another gifts of HEALING by the one Spirit; to another MIGHTY DEEDS; to another PROPHECY; to another DISCERNMENT of spirits; to another varieties of TONGUES; to another INTERPRETATION of tongues. But one and the saem Spirit produces all these, distributing them individually to each person as he wishes."

                                                                         1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-11


"... the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control."

                                                                         GALATIANS 5:22-23