Parkinson's Disease: Robin Williams' Added Struggles in Coping with the Neurodegenerative Diagnosis

Not long after the death of 63-year-old comedian and actor Robin Williams, stunned fans learned that along with battling depression, anxiety and staying sober, he was also suffering from the initial stages of Parkinson's Disease (PD).

Estimates show that anywhere from 50,000 to 60,000 new cases of the degenerative disease pop up in the United States each year, according to the National Parkinson's Foundation (NPF). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also notes that it is ranked the 14th leading cause of death in the United States, with 4-6 million affected worldwide.

"Robin's sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson's Disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly," said his wife Susan Schneider, via Newsweek. "It is our hope in the wake of Robin's tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid."

Robin was not the only celebrity to deal with the disabling symptoms of this progressive disease of the nervous system that affects the body's ability to move, speak or function, overall.

Actor Michael J. Fox, who was first diagnosed with PD in 1991 said he was stunned to learn that Williams was dealing with the health issue.

One of his tweets read the following, courtesy of Forbes: "Stunned to learn Robin had PD. Pretty sure his support four our Fdn predated his diagnosis. A true friend; I wish him peace."

As Fox continues to live with his illness, there is so much left unknown about the cause of the disease and ways to treat it.
A list of medications are available as well as alternative surgeries that can help to ease symptoms related to the health issue, but researchers are still searcing for a cure. 

Some studies have also shown that many Parkinson's patients experience a much higher rate of depression than the general population. It's estimated that 20-40 percent of Parkinson's patients suffer from some form of depression at any time, according to Dr. Daniel Weintraub, an associate professor of psychiatry and neurology who specializes in the psychiatric and cognitive complications of Parkinson's disease at the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia VA Medical Center.

Along with his other struggles, this could have driven Williams over the edge. 

"We have all been devastated by Robin Williams' death. We are further saddened to hear that he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's," noted the National Parkinson's Foundation, via a statement. 

Initial symptoms of PD can range from tremors to loss of smell or difficulties walking or sitting still. If you think you might be dealing with the beginnings of this health problem, contact your doctor for assistance.