Rural Parkinson's Diagnoses: A Look at Geoff Bourne's Case
Farm Life and Parkinson's: A Rural Journey
Geoff Bourne, a farm owner in Ben Lomond, between Armidale and Glen Innes, considers his farm not just a property but his life's purpose. The 1800-acre land has been his home since his parents purchased it in 1952, making him a long-time resident. He works the farm with his family, including his wife Myreen, son Nigel, and Nigel's family.
Born to an accountant father and a farm-loving mother, Geoff has remained close to his agricultural roots. He fondly remembers the peaceful mornings, opening the blinds to greet the green fields. However, the tranquility is sometimes disrupted by droughts.
At 65, Geoff began contemplating his farm's succession planning. His health was excellent, and he was content. Yet, a troubling shake in his hand signaled the onset of Parkinson's disease, a sudden blow he had to accept. With time, he and Myreen grew accustomed to their new reality.
Geoff's form of Parkinson's progresses slowly, primarily affecting his movement. He experiences occasional anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, he is still able to drive, a convenience for his medical appointments, a four-hour round trip to Tamworth.
Initially, Geoff sought help in Brisbane, but he soon realized the inconvenience of frequent travels. He found a neurologist in Tamworth, visiting him every six months. However, he worries about his transportation options when he can no longer drive.
Living with Parkinson's in a rural area presents unique challenges. Geoff mentions the need for regular communication with healthcare providers. While he has yet to engage with a Parkinson's Specialist Nurse, he believes such a resource could greatly benefit rural patients by offering practical advice and emotional support.
Geoff and Myreen have been active members of the Glen Innes Parkinson's Support Group for years. The group provides a platform for sharing experiences, offering emotional comfort, and discussing treatment options. Myreen often attends with Geoff, exchanging ideas with other patients and caregivers.
While the future may require him to relinquish the farm he cherishes, Geoff hopes to remain there as long as possible. He finds solace and motivation in his agricultural pursuits, which help him cope with depressive episodes.
In facing his Parkinson's diagnosis, Geoff continues to live each day as it comes, cherishing his time on the farm and relying on his family for support. His resilience serves as an inspiration for others navigating life with the disease.
- Initially, Geoff's focus was on succession planning for his farm, but his diagnosis with Parkinson's, a neurological disorder, introduced new challenges related to health-and-wellness, such as managing occasional anxiety and depression.
- The progression of Geoff's Parkinson's disease, a medical-condition that primarily affects his movement, has led him to seek regular consultations with a neurologist in Tamworth for the maintenance of his health.
- As Geoff struggles with the mental-health aspects of Parkinson's disease, he finds solace in his agricultural work and engagement with the Glen Innes Parkinson's Support Group, a platform dedicated to sharing experiences and offering emotional support for people dealing with neurological disorders like his.
