As your partner’s illness progresses it can easily take over both of your lives. As an example, my husband now takes pills 6 times a day, but can’t eat for an hour before or after. The pills make him drowsy so he takes a nap every day after lunch. We know that exercise is the best remedy for PD symptoms, so we box twice a week which takes up 2 hours each time and we go to a 90-minute movement and voice class once a week. In addition, he tries to get 20 to 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. Isolation can lead to anxiety and depression so we (mostly I) plan opportunities to meet with friends once or twice a month. We joined a support group that we attend regularly as well as having a breakfast off shoot of that group that meets once a month. We work to eat healthy, well-balanced meals on a regular schedule and try to cut down on sugars and processed snacks. Finally, we strive to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. PD may not be terminal but it definitely is impactful.

In the midst of all of this work to support my husband, people are reminding me to take care of myself. I am supposed to find outside interests that provide a break from the realities of living with someone who has PD. I do try, but when I have the time, I don’t have the energy and when I have the energy, I really want to spend it with my husband doing things we enjoy together. So, for now, it will be the small breaks that will keep me sane as we continue our battle, understanding that, unfortunately, PD is taking the lead.