Page created by: Kathy Abbott

My husband, Jim Abbott was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2000. He was in his 50's and had severe back issues leading to 8 back surgeries. The back issues had nothing to do with the Parkinson diagnosis, however. He was a gentle and caring pediatrician for many years. He was able to do his job until 2005 when he retired, due to his many issues. Jim had the DBS surgery in 2009. It was done at Rush Medical Center in Chicago. It proved to be extremely helpful insofar as Jim not needing to take as much medicine and the problem of locking in place had definitely improved. We joined a support group in 2011 through Rush Copley hospital in Aurora. We had a great facilitator who offered us lots of information about Parkinson, both for Jim and myself (the caregiver). We always looked forward to going. We also enjoyed the people as well as the programs offered there. Jim passed away on 12/26/16. Jim and I had been married 44 years and we had three great kids and seven grandchildren. He was fortunate to have been alive when all the grandchildren were born.
Jim left a legacy of living with a strong faith and an attitude of helping those who needed help. He volunteered for over 20 years at a "Well Child Clinic" in Batavia, IL, as well as having been president of the medical staff, at Delnor Hospital in Geneva. He was on the Core Committee of The Crisis Pregnancy Center in Elgin, as well as on the financial committee at our church for many years; If he was asked to give his help and expertise in any way, he was more than happy to do it. He set a wonderful example for our family and those who loved him. He learned to live with the pain and dealing with the Parkinson issues and he very seldom complained. He died two days before his 70th birthday.