Page created by: The Handler Family

For those that know Gary Bailin, they know what a wonderful, caring, smart and goofy person he can be. When diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, we were all surprised. How? Why? Then we learned of others in his family that had suffered or were recently diagnosed as well. Thankfully, his diagnosis did not slow him down initially. Newly retired and grandchildren on the way, one could view the timing of his diagnosis as a positive or a negative. The initial effects of the hand tremor he had were minimal. As the years passed, the disease has started to take it's toll. Impact on his speech, swallowing and gate have started to appear. Daily tasks such as eating and showering take an effort that they never had before.

As a family, we have found that grandchildren are the best medicine. Gary lights up when he is around his 'boys'! He acts and looks 10 years younger, the children unaware that they are pushing him to be more physically active in a positive way. They have a patience and bond with him that is rare. It is those special moments that we savor and enjoy. From quiet moments at holiday dinners to sharing his love of the original Star Wars movies with a new generation, playing Mexican train and watching baseball games (his grandsons little league games or the Met's), he pushes on despite his disease.

Our hope is for continued advances in treatment and understanding of Parkinson's Disease. We pray for the good days and the chance of a cure in our lifetime- or that of our children.