Overcoming my PD, by helping others

Orli Segal

Orli was 36 in 2000 when she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Because of the disease she has retired as a lawyer, and has now devoted her time to helping others with Parkinson's and their families. Deputy Chairman of the Israel Parkinson Association (IPA) board, Orli was the IPA’s representative to the EPDA from 2003 -2006. Her moving acceptance speech included this poem and she received a standing ovation from the audience.

Here I stand flustered without any humour
Holding body and voice together to control tremor

After years of giving in to my condition, it's only humane
To pick up my pieces and try to forget my pain

I wish to live, and with all my might
I intend to give Parkinson’s an almighty fight

Always evading the prophets of doom
Choosing to help the feeble get well soon

Let us join hands – we will not cease
to bring help to all who suffer from this disease

Finally may my call ring out loud and clear
To encourage more friends to come and volunteer

January 2008

Orli Segal and members of IPA Board

Advocate Orli Segal commended by Israel Minister of Health for her exceptional volunteering activities

Left to right

Michael Ramazanov - member of the IPA board, in charge of IPA’s internet site
Daniel Neumann - Chairman of the IPA board
Adv. Orli Segal - member of the IPA board, commended as an outstanding volunteer for 2007 by the Israel Minister of health
Daniel Raviv - member of the YOUNG ONSET PD patients branch
Danny Olamy - Vice Chairman of the IPA board