Parkinson's and us: Annmarie O'Connor on the heartwarming week since she shared her story

The fact that all these people took the time out of their day to extend their grace and well wishes - through words or deeds - is something for which I’ll always be grateful

Annmarie O'Connor. Picture: Miki Barlok

Last Saturday, in the Irish Examiner Weekend magazine, I shared the story of my recent Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. In being vulnerable with my experience, I hoped it might go some way to helping someone else with theirs. I didn’t anticipate the impact my words would have. 

I’m at once humbled by the response and buoyed by the kindness of people. In an age of online feuds and Internet trolls, good news seems hard to come by; it’s by no means obsolete – trust me.