I have a tough time admitting that I need help and then asking for it is even more difficult. I was recently put to the test. Our kitchen sink had sprung a leak. I crawled under it to see what was wrong, wriggled all the hoses, but couldn’t find anything dripping or wet. I decided it was time to call for help. The plumber I called was reluctant to commit and finally said he would come out but was backed up at least a month. The leak was small, so I agreed.

A few days later I noticed that the leak had gotten much worse and really needed to be addressed. I found myself again with my head under the kitchen sink and this time was able to determine the cause of the leak. A quick check on the internet and I was able to fix it myself. No need for the plumber after all.

This story may not have a lot to do with Parkinson’s Disease but I think it really emphasizes the creativity and resiliency we have to develop as CarePartners. A leaky sink is something my husband would have taken care of before, now that responsibility falls to me. I tried to get help, but the help was not forthcoming, so I plowed ahead and fixed it myself. I will keep asking for help when I think I need it but will always have a back up plan in my pocket just in case.