Parkinson's disease—a chronic disorder that causes a progressive loss of nerve cell function in the part of the brain that controls muscle movement—is an incurable neurological condition with debilitating symptoms. Over 1.5 million Americans are affected, and the numbers continue to grow. From the first moment of her Parkinson's diagnosis, author Jackie Christensen took charge and educated herself on every aspect of her condition. Now, as a "patient-expert," she guides those newly diagnosed step by step through their first year with Parkinson's. She provides crucial information about the nature of the disease, treatment options, diet, exercise, charts and tables, social concerns, emotional issues, networking with others, and much more. The First Year—Parkinson's Disease will be an invaluable guide for all those who want to be an informed, active participant in the management of their condition.
Jackie Hunt Christensen was born and raised in the rural southwestern Minnesota town of Jackson. She earned degrees in political science and Russian Studies from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN.
Inspired after hearing pediatrician Helen Caldicott speak during her freshman year in college, Jackie has been an environmental health activist for more than 20 years. Since her diagnosis with Parkinson's disease (PD) in July 1998, at the age of 34, she has focused her activist efforts more narrowly, concentrating on Parkinson's disease and the environment.
She has been involved with public education and organizing on environmental and health issues during her work with Greenpeace, the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, Health Care Without Harm: The Campaign for Environmentally Responsible Healthcare, and the Collaborative on Health and the Environment.
She has published letters and articles in a diverse array of publications, including the Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Minneapolis Star Tribune, San Francisco Medicine, Minnesota Healthcare News and Mothering.
As time and her health allow, Jackie volunteers with several Parkinson's organizations, including the Parkinson Association of Minnesota, the National Parkinson Foundation, the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, and the Parkinson's Action Network. She is a founding member of the Alliance of Parkinson's Health Activists (ALPHA).
She lives in Minneapolis with Paul, her husband of nearly twenty years, and her sons, Alex and Bennett. In addition to writing (when the Muse visits), Jackie enjoys reading, painting with watercolors, cooking and watching soccer.
