Did You Say Ombudsman?

Did You Say Ombudsman?
By Valerie Graham

I was stunned to learn about the following incident and think you will be too. It came to my attention that a man suffering from Parkinson’s Disease became involved in a domestic dispute which ultimately resulted in him being taken into custody by the police. The police then proceeded to deprive him of his meds for nearly 21 hours despite the fact that he carried the standard card in his wallet identifying himself as a Parkinson’s patient! Needless to say, this caused the gentlemen untold pain and humiliation.

Hi! My name is Valerie Graham and I am a lawyer living in the Denver metro area who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease more than 15 years ago. Like most who are afflicted with this disease, I have experienced the gamut of symptoms and side effects which are part and parcel of living with this chronic neurological illness and have even undergone Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgeries. After 4½ years of nearly continual adjustments to medications and the neurostimulators, I am happy to report that I am now enjoying a period of relatively good health—so much so that I have become much more active in volunteering in various capacities, including the Parkinson’s community. Recognizing the unique concerns associated with DBS surgery, a friend of mine, Kate Kelsall and I recently organized the first DBS support group in the Denver area.

As a result of this incident and similar situations that I have become aware of, I perceive a need for someone both versed in the law and intimately familiar with the ramifications of Parkinson’s to serve as an advocate of sorts on behalf of others in the Parkinson’s community. This ombudsman, if you like, could educate the public, particularly those in positions of authority within the legal system such as judges, juries, lawyers, probation counselors or parole and police officers.

While I have found many people receptive to the concept, I find it difficult to believe that I am the first to conceive this idea. I am also having trouble locating resources which might help me launch this concept. This is why I am appealing to those of you who may be familiar with similar programs or could put me in touch with others who might be helpful in developing this role. If so, please contact me via email at [email protected].

This is an idea whose time has definitely come!

Comments

[Deborah Fryer]

Several lawyers have already organized around the Mirapex lawsuit. Here is a link to just one -- http://www.rkmc.com/Litigation-Involving-Mirapex-and-Its-Link-with-Compulsive-Gambling-Disorders.htm?gclid=CPbagI7O44sCFSZJYAodnnHYPw
-- but if you google mirapex and lawsuit, you will
find lots more links.

I had heard about this case also, and it sounded to me like the man's outburst may have beeen triggered by some medication he was taking. It is clear that there is a need for the advocacy work you are offering.

Keep up the good work!

Deborah Fryer
Producer/Director of the award-winning Parkinson's movie, SHAKEN
http://www.lilafilms.com/shakendvd.htm