Actually, I want this to be my plan for everyday. What if I could wake up each morning cheerful and ready for whatever the day brought. Patiently facing the difficult times without getting frustrated or grumpy. Finding a way though with a smile on my face. Recognizing those moments when things are working well and being grateful for any successes I have along the way. Finding peace and satisfaction in my role as a caring, loving partner. Wow, wouldn’t that be great?

But then I remember I am human. My day is going to bring challenges both in my role as my husband’s CarePartner and outside it. Things will happen and I am going to get upset with him, with myself, with the world in general. Hopefully there will also be times when silly things happen to make me laugh. The day will have it’s ups and downs and so will I. My task is to choose appropriate reactions no matter what comes.

It is impossible and inauthentic for me to try to always be upbeat. That doesn’t mean I can’t still be positive. My positivity is based in the fact that I know I have the capacity needed to fulfill my role as CarePartner. If my husband has the strength to fight this disease, then I can find the strength to stand next to him. Perhaps that is the true victory I need to celebrate daily, the simple fact that 14 years post diagnosis we are both still here standing strong in our battle with PD.