Diagnosis
Vivian Branschofsky was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease when she was 44 years old.
Date of Diagnosis
Vivian was diagnosed in 2001.
Highlight
Attitude is everything for Vivian Branschofsky, especially when it comes to living with Parkinson's disease.
"Having a good attitude helps," says the 52-year-old Vermont native in reference to the physical changes she is facing as her disease progresses. "Life is quite worth living."
Still, at the beginning, it wasn't always easy to stay positive. "For the first four to six months [after being diagnosed] I was emotionally fragile," she recalls. "I have a great husband and wonderful friends who supported me. I've realized I still have things to do in life."
And Branschofsky lives true to her word. Only weeks before being officially diagnosed with Parkinson's, she and her husband completed a Himalayan trek, an impressive feat for anyone. She still regularly rides horses--bareback--skis, plays several sports, and participates in yoga. Her love of gardening helps maintain her fitness as well.
"I think I'm one of the lucky ones because my progression has been slow," she says. "I try my best to maintain a normal lifestyle. I keep challenging myself to see what I can do."
Of course, Parkinson's disease inevitably brings challenge and change. Most of Branschofsky's symptoms affected her right side: she had to learn to write left-handed; she would pick up tools with her left hand and then pass them to her right; her right leg dragged. Three years ago, when Branschofsky began struggling to traverse the uneven ground of her nursery and the work became too demanding, she closed it. Parkinson's began affecting her posture as well. Sleep deprivation has made it difficult to stay alert during the day and decreases her stamina. Social events often have to be cut short, but she doesn't allow such setbacks to ground her.
"Stay socially and physically active," she advises others living with Parkinson's disease. "Don't hide away, don't be embarrassed. When you lose your drive to be part of life it's just a slow death after that."
Branschofsky also participates in an early-onset support group and she worked with the Vermont chapter of the American Parkinson's Disease Association. Some of her most rewarding work in the Parkinson's community has come through participating in research and clinical trials of medications.
"I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself," she says. "I know the research is unlikely to benefit me, but it could help others down the road. It feels great to do something furthering a cure."