(This letter was written to the leader of the port Shepstone Support Group.)

Letter from Jules Klette

6 September 2002

Dear Sheila

You asked about my reaction to John Pepper’s talk (demonstration really) at our Parkinson’s meeting in June?

While cursing my affliction roundly and often, I have to admit to being one of the better-off sufferers; due mostly to a care giver and a family who have not allowed me to capitulate. Also, I have been fortunate enough to have access to doctors, drugs, physiotherapist, and occupational therapists and vitamin supplements aplenty. All this, and yet, suddenly we have John Pepper in our midst, showing us how much more can be done on our own to get on top of this disorder. How to walk, how to talk, how to manipulate eating utensils? Most of us have read casually about these things, perhaps even tried out one or two of the ‘control’ suggestions; but what an inspiration it was to have the example of John right here with us. The impact was tremendous. Apart from being able to identify and work at several of my own needs I was able to witness the walking lessons given to Yvonne. She was made to heel toe, heel toe, lift her feet, swing her arms…………..the results were extraordinary. In the short space of time of approximately twenty minutes she was transformed from a serious shuffler to a walker. She had found it exhausting but was resolved to keep it up.

So if anyone wants to know whether I thought John Pepper’s visit was a success, the answer is a resounding YES.

Yours sincerely

Jules Klette