Israeli Journalist Neri Livna Reveals Parkinson’s Diagnosis After Health Decline

Neri Livna, a 73-year-old Israeli journalist, publicly disclosed her battle with Parkinson’s disease in a weekly column for Haaretz. She described the gradual deterioration of her health, the medical tests she underwent, and the moment she was diagnosed. Livna recounted how losing and then finding her wallet, which contained her Parkinson’s association membership card, prompted her to reveal her condition. She detailed symptoms such as weakness, exhaustion despite long sleep, loss of smell, slowed movement, and a soft voice, which worsened two years after she quit smoking.

Livna shared that her family was deeply concerned about her health while she was in denial, attributing her symptoms to smoking cessation. After various medical consultations, including a cardiologist and psychiatrist, it was her son who insisted she might have Parkinson’s. Eventually, a neurologist confirmed the diagnosis and prescribed dopamine treatment, which immediately improved her condition. Despite this, Livna admitted feeling ashamed and like a failure initially, fearing pity and stigma.

She also challenged common stereotypes about Parkinson’s, noting she met many patients who live active, fulfilling lives without visible tremors. Livna mentioned a recent fall in Berlin that resulted in a broken shoulder, which she now understands was related to Parkinson’s symptoms. She concluded her column by stating that she had decided it was time to "come out" about her illness, emphasizing her commitment to honesty with her readers.

Livna’s revelation sheds light on the personal challenges faced by Parkinson’s patients and highlights the importance of awareness and understanding of the disease.