Destination Unknown - My Journey with Parkinson’s

In a society where talking about one's experience with disease is not very common, here comes a book doing exactly that (a first book that is written by a PD patient in India).As I can see, there are 2 major takeaways from this book:Firstly, the medical information that one gets from this book both from the experience narration and from the PD Q&A is very helpful – authentic, in one place and not voluminous. This part, I think, would be useful for all PD patients and care-givers.Secondly, the takeaway from the emotional aspects and coping with the various family issues that a patient faces just after being diagnosed with PD. These experiences may vary from one patient another depending on age, family etc. For a recently diagnosed PD patient in same age group, the book should be of immense help and this part of the takeaway is not available elsewhere. Sooner such patients and their care-givers read this book, more they would benefit.Overall, the book is biographical in narration yet very honest and humble, personal experiences pleasant or not so pleasant narrated yet very careful not to be judgemental, brief yet informative, written by an author with engineering background yet the narration style is very absorbing. I strongly recommend this book to recently diagnosed PD patients and their family members.

It is a complete journey with writer's experience with Parkinson's disease.This book is going to be useful to a non-expert wanting to learn about the disease and am sure lots of people will find comfort and courage which they might be seeking at a crucial time.It is a truthful account of one's personal experience and the writer maintains his sense of humor despite the desperation of his situation. His words of kindness for the 'young sanyasi' are remarkable and Renu's, 'maine kaha tha na' endearing. Her courage and level-headedness is quite something for a wife caring for her husband during his illness.It took me back to my own experience with a rare (5 new cases per million of population per year) and life-threatening disease diagnosed at the age of 41.By Gayatri BiswasReading the book reminded me of having a guided tour through a whisky trail, albeit the nature and intensity of experience are vastly different. It is a tour through the disease (Parkinson) , the struggle, tribulation, fear and hope, doubt and resolution, and courage of the patient and his life partner. The tone of language is personal and balanced. I may add that despite the grim nature and gravity of the subject matter, the book does not lack the element of humor too. I particularly remember one quote as to self-pitying: "this is for tomorrow. Today's quota is over."By Tapan Biswas.

The personal experience of the author is very relatable. He takes the reader through the various stages he went through, the anguish, the depression and ultimately the acceptance ending with a positive note. We'll worth a read.

The book has been written in a very simple language. The author has expressed everything relating to disease in a very honest manner. Whereas a common person will conceal his ailment contrary author has taken upon himself very boldly to share his personal experience. The book is quite informative and explains everything step by step. Mostly such information is never provided by the Hospitals.The book is no less than a boon for the patients and their care partners. Even answers to the common questions have been provided to dispel doubts.Above all Author is contributing proceeds from the book for the welfare of the Parkinson patients.

Although the author has written this book specifically from his diagnosed disease perspective, this book is going to be very helpful for any health issue anyone might face.Goes without saying that it is very difficult to put your emotions into words given the wide range of it the author went through/experienced, it is very well articulated. Keeping the narrative and focus in line, the book doesn't drift. It provides balanced view. Apprehension are same in any condition, only the individualistic responses changes from person to person.Well researched as it is not only author's point of view that is presented but also from people who went through or are going through similar experience.I trust it will be helpful to anybody to read and help affected people and their close one in reaching out to/for help.

This is such an inspiring book! One is instantly able to connect with the author’s very personal experience and journey in his battle with Parkinsons.Well researched, very simply and crisply written, this book hooks the reader immediately on the journey and the reader is secretly rooting for the patient to win his battle against PD.One of the first (if not the first!) books written about Parkinsons disease with an Indian context, this will definitely serve as a source of inspiration and hope to all patients and as a source of knowledge and strength to their family members.I sincerely hope that Neurosurgeons recommend this book to all their patients battling PD.

I have known Rajeev for many years and his account of the journey which no one would wish to take is simple, appealing and pictures the real sufferings. He is a balanced person and it is clearly brought out how it was a big challenge even for him. This book will serve those who are suffering from PD, those who have to know what it is and for those who have to support people who are undergoing it presently. I am feeling guilty about missing myself as a support arm to him during his journey, which I am trying to rectify now.

The book is simple and a good first person account of Rajiv going through what I would classify as a debilitating illness.The stories strike a chord. He talks of his mis-steps, his luck and the things he did. He does not conclude saying something is superior over another - truly wonderful because the experience of each individual can be different.Also these are the types of things that many of us would not like to discuss publicly, and much less write a book. So good to see that step forward in our country.

I highly Recommend this book to anyone dealing with Parkinson’s, what to expect in the road ahead, what is DBS. I could relate to almost everything that the author has said. Very well written, easy read, stated facts like it is without sugar coating. And oh yah. I love the way he explained in simple terms so that it can be digested by one and all 🙏🏽👏In terms of Excercise - adding boxing to the regimen helps a lot. In the US called Rock Steady Boxing has helped a lot of PD folks.Yes as the author says PD and treatment is different for each person.DBS is not simple to go thro’. But life after DBS is definitely worth it per our experience.The key to this whole thing is securing a good trustworthy reputed neurologist, good surgeon, good therapist. We went through a couple which did not work for us in the beginning. Now we have landed on gems. 🙏🏽Few things I feel were not discussed much :1) caregiver experience2) Author’s life post DBS - the good n bad.3) importance to tackle depression, while feeling low, just medicenes will not help. Seeing a good therapist is a must.Best wishes and thanks for sharing Your personal PD experience with us 🙏🏽

I know Rajeev personally. We were never aware that he was going thru all these things. He was always cheerful and above and beyond, he wrote such a good book.I would recommend this book to everyone who has been been having personal battles and are able to objectively assess it and work towards a better life.Great true life fable. Keep flowing Rajeev.

This book really helped me to understand the disease. I am caring for my 72year old cousin who has parkinson. Karen is bed bound and in stage 5. I am trying to figure out how to help her!

Sharing with friends and family, friends and family are the treasure of relationship in India best to talk specially your feelings and you are never alone. And the yoga teacher.

Anyone with any serious illness should read this bookBeauty of a person is to keep positive energy and keep fightingThis book will demonstrate that