Dr. Farquhar becomes poster boy for Neuro Support Group

Dr. Hal Farquhar undergoes therapy on a treadmill under the supervision of physical therapist Kirsi Vera. A prominent Putnam County physician has become the poster boy for an organization dealing with patients and families of those living with stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease.

Dr. Hal Farquhar, 71, who retired last year as head of Northeast Eye Care following an extremely successful 40- plus year career in the field of ophthalmology, suffers from Parkinson’s and five days a week undergoes treatment at the Putnam Hospital Center Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

Dr. Farquhar has joined the Neuro Support group, which this month celebrates its first anniversary. The group meets on the third Monday of the month to share information, listen to speakers, review breakthroughs in new technologies, and to enjoy some good, old fashioned fellowship.

Dr. Farquhar recalled seven years ago how he noticed a tremble in his pinky finger. He was examined by a neurologist, who diagnosed him with Parkinson’s. “It came as quite a surprise, but I immediately stopped operating on my patients,” he said.

Dr. Farquhar has always exhibited what he described as “low key speech. Sometimes the volume is low and my articulation can be unclear.” As part of the PHC outpatient program, Dr. Farquhar is being seen by speech pathologist Jenny Zagajewski, who teaches him to increase his volume while slowing down the articulation. Dr. Farquhar admitted: “The only problem with her techniques is that when I follow her suggestions, I am not myself. It’s easier for others but not for me.”

Dr. Farquhar’s new goal continues to be his work ethic: “As an ophthalmologist and surgeon, I treated patients around-the-clock. Now, with my recent diagnosis, my new role in life remains ‘work-work-work.’ You must stay active once diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Activity is a key to success because once the patient gives up one thing, it is gone forever.”

Dr. Farquhar is extremely pleased with the outpatient rehabilitation offered at PHC, which he described as being “patient-oriented, low key, extremely professional, and very friendly. This is a very personal place to be.”

Kirsi Vera is one of the physical therapists at the outpatient clinic. Vera explained that brain trauma or illness such as Parkinson’s affects not only the patient but the entire family as well: “Our Neuro Support Group brings the family and patient together to meet others with the same condition, problems and difficulties. They brainstorm and help each other. It is a wonderfully supportive group.”

Deborah Arconti, Community Relations Coordinator for Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, said the support group has aided dozens of people during the past year: “During the meetings, we break out into groups so patients can discuss their concerns while their loved ones can meet separately. A support system is very critical when a patient and family are undergoing a life-changing crisis resulting from traumatic injury or illness.”

Dr. Farquhar led the discussion at last week’s anniversary meeting when keynoting “Humor with Hal.”

Zagajewski reminded her patient: “Remember now—slowly and loudly!” Dr. Farquhar smiled and did his therapist proud.

Those interested in learning more about the group can call Arconti at 279-5711, ext. 2482.