I am revisiting some earlier entries and this one seems particularly relevant this week as my husband undergoes DBS (deep brain stimulation) surgery. I hope you find it meaningful-

What is really interesting about this journey with my husband is that, while we are both impacted by his diagnosis of PD and headed in the same direction, our paths are still so different. They will intersect and intertwine, but they are independent roads that we each must follow with unique twists and turns. The scenery is very different based on the perspective you bring to the route.

There are times when it feels like we are on a ship and I have to be the cruise director planning activities to help us get through every day. I am called upon to the be ship’s engineer to make sure things are all functioning properly to propel us forward or the communications officer handling all official correspondence like phone calls and appointments. I like to wear the Captain’s hat the least because that means I may have to make major decisions that could have negative impacts on our lives.

The most difficult component of this journey together are those times when I realize I am basically a passenger watching his struggles. We did not buy ticket for this ride, nor do we have a map for the road ahead, so we can never know when we will encounter sharp curves or rough waters. What I can try to do is recognize and respect the differences between the challenges we each face and then work to provide support he needs at the appropriate times. I can also remember that I am not in this alone, I have a crew of people who are ready to help me when I need it.

Our journey will be difficult at times but it can also be an adventure as we explore what life still has planned for us. Let me embrace a positive attitude as we move forward with adventuresome spirits today!