Publisher's Synopsis
Ms. Lucka is in her 21st year living with Parkinson's disease. To commemorate this milestone, she republishes her first memoir released in 2012 with this second edition. Written from a woman's perspective, C. Claire Lucka rewinds to her diagnosis in 2002 and covers the first ten years of her illness. She discusses her prescriptions and treatment plan and side effects. She tells how her life changes and her initial response and handling of the diagnosis. Ms. Lucka shares her most personal and intimate spousal relationship and emotional difficulties. She expresses her feelings of doubt and anger as it relates to the physical challenges and the loss of independence. She struggles to accept her illness and to find a new identity outside of Parkinson's. On her journey she discovers a strong woman within herself and learns to accept her illness and she is now. With spirit and vitality Ms. Lucka, is determined to slow the progression of the disease and enjoy a quality of life.
A Thorn in My Rose Garden, A Woman's Journal Living with Parkinson's (2012), by C. Claire Lucka, Second Edition (2022). This new edition is available in anticipation the release of author's second memoir. The author recommends reading A Thorn in My Rose Garden prior to her second memoir for detailed background information of the first ten years.
Ms. Lucka's second book Thorns in Our Rose Garden, a Couple's Journey Living with Parkinson's (expected release 2023) will focus on the past ten years living with Parkinson's as a couple. Ms. Lucka will also reflect on the first ten and include the challenges of the couple's roles in a caregiver-spousal relationship.
