Re: DBS RESULTS -- AN INFORMAL SURVEY

["smartcat@xxxxxxxx" <smartcat@xxxxxxxx>]

I had DBS surgery in January 2009.  I had two separate operations and the 
implant was installed on February 20th.  I had my first programming in Buffalo, 
NY and two other programing visits were done in Rochester, NY.  Dr. Robert 
Plunkett, Jr was the surgeon at Buffalo General Hospital,  his number is 716 
859-7580.

It took me approximately 18 months to get the courage to do this and after I 
made my decision I was very calm about the whole process.  In fact, I wondered 
why I had postponed this event for so long.  It has truly been a miracle for 
me.  I don't have any more dyskinesia, I no  longer freeze up and not be able 
to move, and my voice has become much stronger.
I was taking Stalevo 25/100 every three hours along with Requip 2 Mg 3 times a 
day.  Now I only take .05 mg of Requip in the morning and carbidopa/levadopa 
25/100 3 times a day.
When I wake up I can walk like a regular person rather than waiting an hour for 
the meds to kick in.  On many occasions I had to crawl to the TV while waiting 
for the meds to kick  in.  My other problem was not knowing when the meds would 
 work.  Every time I froze people would say I wasn't taking my medication and 
that wasn't the case.

I would say that the DBS surgery was the best thing that ever happened to me.  
I am a new person after suffering with PD for close to 20 years and I would 
recommend it to  any one.
I would highly recommend Dr. Plunkett for this surgery.  He is a no nonsense 
doctor but has great bedside manner. 

I hope I have answered your questions.  I also suggest that you get into Yahoo 
groups for DBS surgery.  They answer a lot of questions also.

Pam

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