Dennis and Paula Olejniczak don't let Parkinson's disease slow them down

Dennis and Paula Olejniczak

Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. It develops gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Paula Olejniczak noticed her left arm starting to quiver in 1997 when she was 56 years old. Her family doctor sent her to Mayo Clinic and she came home with the diagnosis of Parkinson's.

Paula has been living with Parkinson's for 20 years now.  It wasn't until the last couple of years that the disease progressed more quickly. Paula's husband and caregiver, Dennis, credits getting the right medication and exercise as ways they have been able to push back the severity of her illness.

Mental exercises like word searches, crossword puzzles, and coloring books are activities Paula does daily to keep her mind alert. The Olejniczaks live on a quiet street that has an oval. Paula likes to take walks with her dog Molly. Molly is 13 years old, and many times wears out on the walks and can be seen riding in the walker's storage area while Paula pushes her. After her walk Dennis will ask Paula, "Did you talk to anyone?" as he knows interaction with others is important to keep mentally strong.

Dennis remembers when Paula was told she should start using a walker to get around. He reflects, "Paula said, 'How am I going to hit a tennis ball if I'm in a walker?' " showing just how active Paula was used to being.

Paula taught aerobics at Postville and Decorah schools for many years and has always led an active life. She raised five children with Dennis.  He has coached for over 54 years in Decorah. Paula loves going to all the high school baseball games that Dennis coaches. The team support Paula and appreciate her encouraging words at their games.

"We are so appreciative of the boys (baseball team), they understand the situation and they are helpful with Paula. The boys are quick to offer a hand to help Paula up steps," shared Dennis. Paula rides along with baseball families for rides to out of town games, where she enjoys cheering on the Vikings.

Hawkeye football has been part of the Olejniczak family for over 40 years. Dennis and Paula have been fans since both their sons Lon (1979-83) and Jason (1989-1993) played football for Iowa.  They still attend every home game. "If there is something you really like doing, keep doing it," says Dennis. It is an effort to get Paula to the stadium, but worth the effort. "I've learned to ask for help when we need it when we are out and about," said Dennis.

Paula remains happiest around her children and grandchildren. They have active grandchildren who keep them active. One grandson is playing baseball at Mount Mercy, they have a granddaughter pitching on the softball team at UNI, another granddaughter is playing tennis at Wartburg, and a grandson is a junior in Perry who wrestles, plays football, runs track, and plays baseball.

Caregivers of people with diseases like Parkinson's have to take on different roles as the disease progresses. Paula gave up driving three years ago and now Dennis is the sole driver on trips. Paula has the task of keeping Dennis awake when driving home late from activities, instead of sharing the driving.

Paula did most of the cooking, cleaning, and laundry as she helped raise their family. In addition to taking on those chores, Dennis says, "One of the most difficult things is to have to say no to something I watched Paula do efficiently and effectively, but now her body limits her. I have to tell her she can't do that because it's a safety issue."

"We try to do as normal as we can. We can't do things like we used to, but it's important not to withdraw, at least try to do the things you enjoy," is advice Dennis gives.

"If you want to keep moving, you have to keep trying," Paula says.  She tells others in similar situations, "keep moving, keep making your brain working."

Paula appreciates the ramped brick path her son installed to help her get into the house easier

Dennis loves growing a variety of pumpkins, gourds, and squash each year

Dennis spoke at the monthly Parkinson's support group this week

Paula enjoyed hearing Dennis speak at the Parkinson's support group