Caregivers

[traillius]

Is anyone else here a caregiver for a spouse, child, or parent? I would love to have someone to discuss things with who knows how I feel some. Part of my cross is helping my wife who is disabled from a stroke, and has diabetes. I know God is with me, despite my shortcomings, still it can be lonely. Perhaps we who bear these types of things can help each other.

 

[dermot2]

I’m sorry about your wife – it can be very stressful.

Please visit Wellspouse.org : many many people there in your situation and they are very caring and supportive, just like the people here.

 

[traillius]

I looked at it, looks nice. I am not able to afford membership right now, but maybe the forums which are free will help me.

 

[BamaRider]

I shared caregiver roles with 82 year old mother for over a year before her death. We had a nursing home option open to us, but we wanted her home. My brother and sister also helped. Whether it was with time or money, we made sure my mother was ok, it was a family effort.

She needed 24 hour care, but she didn’t become bed ridden till the last couple of months. It was a challenge and one of the most rewarding things I’d ever done. It made me feel good about myself, and my mother.

I often heard, and now I can vouch, those that care for the aged and disabled out of love are given special graces in this life, and in the next. I know God has shed his light on me in many ways the last few years, it has been very humbling.

 

[traillius]

My wife doesn’t need 24 hour care anymore, besides I have no choice but to work, for paying bills, and our medical insurance. She is trying to get better, and she has adjusted alot. but its still hard on us. Plus the other issues we are dealing with not related to my wife’s health… we really are struggling, and trying hard.

 

[CarolinNC]

I am a disabled spouse, my caregiver is my husband and he is wonderful. We still have our trials and sometimes we don’t have patience with each other. I know it is hard on him having to do so many things that I use to be able to do and work. I can no longer clean house, do laundry, or cook (I can start things in the crock pot and fix my own breakfast & lunch). It has been hard to switch roles. I do not need 24 hour care either and I have always been VERY independent. I no longer work, I was a paralegal for 24 years, worked hard, raised 7 children, took care of the home, made my kids clothes and sewed for the public. It has been a real trial to shift over to not working and not keeping my home. But the LOrd has blessed us with a stronger love for each other and a very close bond with our children. I do what I can to keep myself busy and my spirits up. I can’t do much but I can do little things with great love. I look at my disability and others having to help me as a grace I am giving back to them. Instead of complaining (which would be very easy to do), I graciously thank them for their help and smile peacefully.

I am thankful for my caregivers and I pray for all caregivers everywhere. My our merciful sweet Lord keep them safe and bless them abundantly.

Thank you for all you do.