In the hushed halls of the Malaysian Parkinson’s Disease Association (MPDA), a transformative event unfolded, leaving behind a trail of awareness, understanding, and newfound hope. At the heart of this event was Valarmatdi Mathivanan, a beacon of knowledge and compassion, guiding Parkinson’s patients, their caregivers, and budding psychology enthusiasts from SEGi College Subang Jaya on a journey to comprehend and manage Parkinson’s Disease from a psychological perspective.
The visit, which took place from 10.30 am to 1.30 pm, aimed at educating Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers about the intricate psychological effects of this challenging disease. Valarmatdi, our esteemed speaker, delved deep into the psychological nuances of Parkinson’s, unravelling the mysteries that often shroud the mental health aspects of the condition. His insights not only enlightened the attendees but also empowered them with coping strategies, instilling a sense of control amidst the uncertainties.
However, the impact extended beyond the enlightening talk. The diligent students pursuing a diploma in Psychology from SEGi College Subang Jaya orchestrated a series of activities, meticulously aligned with the coping mechanisms discussed during the session. Each activity was designed not just to engage but to heal, to provide solace, and to offer a glimpse of normalcy amidst the challenges posed by Parkinson’s.
The first activity, which is deep breathing coupled with physical exercises, aims to rejuvenate both the body and mind. It was a reminder that amidst the tremors and struggles, a realm of tranquillity is attainable through focused breathing and movement.
During the second activity, the room buzzed with creativity as participants indulged in the therapeutic art of colouring. Mandalas and tulips, the official symbol for Parkinson’s disease, came to life under the careful strokes of crayons and markers. The act of creation became a testament to resilience, illustrating how beauty could emerge even amidst the intricate lines of life.
Music and movement took centre stage in the third activity, as attendees explored the therapeutic benefits of playing musical instruments. The room resonated with melodies; each note a testament to the human spirit’s ability to find harmony even in the face of discord.
Origami, the art of paper folding, took a poignant turn in the final activity. Delicate paper tulips, crafted with precision, symbolised the blooming strength and hope within each participant. Folding each petal became an act of defiance against the limitations imposed by Parkinson’s, a silent declaration of their enduring spirit.
The feedback from MPDA echoed the sentiments of triumph and gratitude. The session, they remarked, was more than just insightful—it was transformative. The awareness created around the psychological facets of Parkinson’s, coupled with the coping strategies shared, left a lasting impact. What truly stood out were the activities organised by the psychology students. Each activity, carefully curated, had not just engaged but also healed, offering respite to weary hearts and tired souls.
In the gentle strokes of crayons, the resonating tunes of music, and the meticulous folds of origami, Parkinson’s patients found more than just distractions. They discovered moments of serenity, avenues of expression, and reminders that life, despite its challenges, could still be beautiful. The SEGi College Subang Jaya’s Psychology students didn’t just organise activities; they curated experiences that nurtured hope, understanding, and resilience. In that shared space of creativity and healing, they didn’t just touch lives; they transformed them, leaving behind an indelible mark of compassion and achievement.
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