parkinson’s blues
The human lifespan continues to extend due to scientific breakthroughs. Meanwhile, there is a rise of Parkinson’s. What was once a historically rare neurological disorder is now a pandemic.
Gary, a 79-year-old resident of Manhattan bravely navigates life with Parkinson’s. Since being diagnosed in 2014, Gary chooses to continue an active and creative lifestyle – a conscious effort that helps both manage his symptoms and slow the irreversible onset of his Parkinson’s. His hobbies include drawing, writing, and singing. Originally from Michigan, Gary now lives with his son’s family, including his two granddaughters.
Together, we explore how Gary confronts the inevitability of death and creates meaning within the space in between.
Parkinson’s Blues
by Gary
Doctor Doctor
Gimme the news
I gots a bad case of the Parkinson's blues
Shakin’, bakin’, rattle and roll.
It’s an ornery bitch losin’ control
Fallin’down and trippin’ up
Don’t know half a whattsup
Shakin’ bakin’ rattle and roll
It’s a bitch losin’ control
Fallin’ up, trippin’ down
Stumblin’ and bumblin’ up town
Stumblin’ and tumblin’ downtown
Don’t know what’s goin’ around
Shakin’ bakin’ rattle and roll
It’s a bitch losin’ control
Walkin’ and talkin’ is a challenge
Toe Hookin’ a sidewalk, ain’t no balance
Shakin’ and bakin’ and rattle and roll
It’s an ornery bitch losin’ control
I’m chokin’ I ain’t smokin’
Coughing, slow talkin’
Mumble
stumble
fumble
Don’t take a tumble
Tremor makes you humble
Nose dive, can’t drive
Need a cane
Hurts my vain
Slow mo
It’s a mofo
Slow talk slow walk
Skip trip break a hip
Keep a stiff upper lip
Slow talkin’ , slow walkin’
Shakin’ and bakin’ and rattle and roll
It’s an ornery bitch losing control
Doctor doctor
Gimme the news
I gots the clues
It’s a bad case of the Parkinson’s blues