AJ
You have always had a way with words, and your reply is a prime example. "Acceptance" IS truly complex, indeed. If we fall prey to allowing others to do everything for us, then it wouldn't be long before we would not be able to do anything. But there's a mixed message, and you know this already.
It is statistically a fact that the incidence of PD increases with age,* but we do not have a confirming diagnostic test nor an official registry; therefore, the count most assuredly is more. (over 1 million in the U.S., and 7-10 million worldwide* - this is a "guesstimate" rather than an estimate).
It is also estimated that 4% of those diagnosed are under the age of 50.* With 80 million baby boomers turning age 60 (the average age of onset), this. Is going to be a major need In funding Medicare/Medicaid for the ones coming from the baby boomer population.
*
These facts were taken from the Parkinson's Disease Foundation site at this link:
http://www.pdf.org/en/parkinson_awareness_press_release
Why don't we take these facts and send letters to your legislators and or write a letter to your local newspaper editor requesting no cuts from PD research? It can only help!
Peggy