An interview with Roger Ahlinder on Advocacy, July 26, 2023 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Biography
Roger Ahlinder aka Alder H Linden, born 1967 in Uppsala Sweden. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in January 2018.
The diagnosis was a huge blow and a great disappointment. Has spent the past 5 years fighting his way back, which has been a slow and tedious process. Still feels that life is not as meaningful as it used to be. Had a 20 year long break away from music. Ironically, Parkinson’s made him return to the music. Calls himself an independent genreless melodymaker. Creating music is the best therapy there is. Music is his passion.
Please tell me a little about your background.
Has a background in carpentry. Motorsports fan. Likes soccer and ice hockey. Holds a black belt in jiu-jitsu. Enjoys making melodies/songs. Loves spending time with his wife and his German shepherd Rex.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
I would say that my own diagnosis got me involved with awareness. I am not the greatest advocate, but if someone is curious and asks about the disease, I will tell them what I know.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
I pray and hope every day for a cure. The thought of living the rest of my life like this is a very sad thought.
What effect can it have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
I would say that most people who have worked with me, have wanted to learn more about Parkinson’s.
My advocacy will hopefully raise interest and broaden people’s understanding.
What would you like to see as a future goal for your programs?
My future goal for my advocacy would be to show people that anything is still possible. It is a rocky road, but with the right mind-set, you can do it.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
The better knowledge the caregivers have, the better care they will be able to give. We need to be open with how Parkinson’s is affecting not only ourselves, but our family, our friends etc.
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
Instagram at Alder H Linden
Distrokid: https://hyperfollow.com/alderhlindenmusic
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3aQz85weTOPHyJ9rGaEep2?si=bwp_Xi3ZS1eUVJ0bzTWYpw
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
“Do not give up on your dreams, find a way to adapt them”.