This blog is an addendum to my previous post in memory of Robin Williams regarding depression. Apparently, the star was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was on medication to help slow his symptoms. In addition to Robin’s struggle with severe depression, the medication he was taking for Parkinson’s disease came with a side-effect of suicide. In any case, it is a sad state of affairs for the former entertainer to be cut down with two dreaded diseases, but more poignant that he was unable to heal his life. Parkinson’s takes otherwise bright and articulate individuals and places them into a progressive inability to move normally and express themselves verbally.
The Mayo Clinic describes the symptoms and progression of Parkinson’s disease as the following: Parkinson’s disease symptoms and signs may vary from person to person. … Parkinson’s signs and symptoms may include:
Tremor. …
Slowed movement (bradykinesia). …
Rigid muscles. …
Impaired posture and balance. …
Loss of automatic movements. …
Speech changes. …
Writing changes.
When we learn more about the conditions that plagued Robin Williams, we can empathize and become more motivated to search for answers for others who are suffering. It is a shame that it sometimes takes a celebrity to point the way in cases like this.
Robin Williams was remarkably eloquent, despite his internal pain- to draw upon his comic genius and touch others with his deep love and humor. He loved bringing light to others, while at the same time; his love of life was flickering out. His spontaneously manic ways sparked joy in others when he shared his vocal and creative gifts with the world. As most comedians do, they often use humor to describe painful stories from their lives. It is in the telling of the story using the spin of humor that allows others to relate, cope and find solace in the laughter. In the case of Robin Williams, he made us laugh and cry with his prolific depth of voice, talent and spirit. To progressively lose his voice and physicality of being was simply too much for him.
It is terribly unfortunate that he lacked the inner strength, hope and will to live, coupled with inadequate medical care to have taken his own life. May his genius live on in our hearts and films and for those whose lives he touched personally. If you are struggling with depression or have been diagnosed with a progressive illness, reach out for help and reach inside to best care for yourself moving forward. Your life is special, it means something and is a precious gift to honor and protect.
Call your local or national suicide prevention hotline if you or someone you know feels suicidal or is having suicidal thoughts. Let me know if I can support you! Contact me @: www.LiveInspiredwithNina.com or email me @: Nina@LiveInspiredwithNina.com. Feel free to comment on my blogs. I want to hear from you! Follow me on Facebook and Twitter.
Live Inspired!®
Nina~