Introduction

In a groundbreaking move to educate and raise awareness, Guelph artist Barbara Salsberg Mathews has launched a new ebook titled What Parkinson's Feels Like, which was officially released today. This innovative ebook showcases the artistic interpretations of the experiences of those living with Parkinson’s disease, providing a powerful glimpse into their daily struggles and triumphs.

Artist's Journey

Diagnosed in 2020, Salsberg Mathews has transformed her personal journey with Parkinson’s into this artful narrative. With contributions spanning across the globe, she has illustrated the pain, resilience, and unique feelings associated with the condition. Using a combination of watercolour, mixed media, and digital techniques, she pairs each visual representation with heartfelt descriptions shared by individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

Artistic Representation

The art is comprised of both poignant imagery and first-hand accounts that deliver an emotional punch, inviting readers to understand the disease from a personal perspective.

Personal Reflection

One particularly striking description from Salsberg Mathews resonates deeply: “Parkinson’s is like a grey mist, floating towards me from behind to take me down. Sneaking up in an insidious way, trying to put me to sleep, roll off to the corner with the dust bunnies.” This sentiment is brought to life through an illustration depicting a person standing on rocky ground, a wave crashing over them—a metaphor for the daily challenges faced by those battling this condition.

Interview Insights

In an interview, Salsberg Mathews revealed, “This is my reality every morning, and I visualize that wave coming over my shoulder to carry on.” She emphasizes that Parkinson's affects not only physical capabilities but cognitive functions as well, an important aspect often overlooked by the public.

Acknowledgment of Contributors

Salsberg Mathews expresses deep appreciation for the contributors who shared their experiences, acknowledging that these voices are crucial in highlighting the collective reality of living with Parkinson’s. “Your descriptions reminded me that I’m not alone. This book could not have been made without sharing your lived experiences as a person with Parkinson’s. Thank you,” she wrote in the ebook.

Mission Statement

Furthermore, Salsberg Mathews articulates her mission: “I created this book to educate others and raise awareness. It’s vital for people to see that we are not defined by our disease. We are individuals living our best lives despite it.” This essential message of empowerment and community shines through in every page.

Collaboration for Awareness

The book was published in collaboration with Parkinson’s Europe, an organization dedicated to advocating for people with Parkinson's and enhancing awareness of the disease across the continent. Through this partnership, Salsberg Mathews was able to gather rich, diverse perspectives on what living with Parkinson’s truly feels like.

Physical Limitations

While she wished to illustrate every single submission, she noted the physical limitations imposed by her condition. "If I had attempted that, my hand would have run out of gas," she said, a reference to the challenges of pacing herself while managing medication effects.

Conclusion

In a world where understanding diverse experiences is paramount, Salsberg Mathews’ ebook not only serves as an artistic testament to the complexity of Parkinson's but also as a beacon of hope and connection for many. It stands as a vivid reminder that through shared stories and artistic expression, we can foster empathy and awareness in our communities.