As a successful dentist, Stephen Andreason’s hands were perhaps his most reliable tool, and when he picked up oil painting as a hobby in the 1980s, he found them to be just as dependable. Whatever his mind envisioned was channeled through his fingers to the tip of his brush and onto the canvas. Landscapes, seascapes and paintings of exotic orchids were executed with precision and detail. 
 

However, in 2004, at the age of 52, Stephen’s right arm became more difficult to control and his ability to perform dental procedures took longer to accomplish. The right side of his mouth drooped, and in short order, doctors diagnosed him with Parkinson’s disease. Medication controlled his symptoms well, but after two years of adapting to Parkinson’s disease and his medication, Stephen decided it was time to sell his practice and retire.

“As an artist, I’m left-handed, but as a dentist, I was ambidextrous,” says Stephen. “I used both hands for everything and when my right arm became weak and uncooperative, I didn’t feel I could do my best work.”

Since retiring, he’s been able to devote more time to his health, as well as, the activities and services offered for free through Orange Coast Medical Center’s Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Program, which is funded by the MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center Foundation.