Perhaps I should have listed that third thing first since it is so basic and vital to the role. If I don’t take care of myself, I am unable to do the other 2 jobs. So, this week I am seeing my doctor to check out some pain I have been having in my shoulder. It hasn’t kept me from caring for my husband yet, but I know it is impacting how we interact. I get cranky when things don’t work right and my left arm isn’t working the way it should, I need to get it fixed.

My role of providing care varies  based on how my husband is feeling. On a good day, he needs minimal help because his symptoms are mild and the meds are working. However we do have bad days when he seems to be tired or off and I need to step up my support. It would be great if we could predict when those bad days are going to strike but there really doesn’t seem to be a reason, they just happen. We deal with them and move on.

Being a loving partner is the easiest component of this journey because I loved this man before PD and I will love him no matter what happens. I just have to remember to take the time to let him know how I feel. Parkinson’s Disease may try to come between us at times but I won’t let it. PD will be a challenge for the rest of our time together, the love we share will help us overcome it.