As my  husband’s symptoms progress, my role changes. That’s just the way it is. Before his Parkinson’s diagnosis, we were both somewhat involved in local politics and engaged in community activities. I miss that work but understand that I only have so much energy to give. I still do what I can to let my opinions be known regarding local and national issues. That may be displaying signs in my yard or writing letters to the editor of our local paper. It is what I can do and allows me to remain active while still meeting my responsibilities at home.

This balancing act means that I may not be attending city meetings in person, but I can watch them on the internet to stay up on issues that matter to me. I may not be able to knock on doors or make phone calls for my favorite candidates, but I can make financial contributions and vote my conscience when the time comes. I can participate in conversations with friends and family when appropriate which gives me the chance to explore and express my views.

Being a CarePartner isn’t all I can be. It is one piece of what I do, granted the most important piece right now. There is more to my life and I need to be sure that I respect that. I try to stay involved with the outside world to the extent that I can. I like to stay informed about what is happening because it may very well impact me and my family. I remember that just as I have a responsibility to care for my husband, I also have a responsibility to care about the world we live in. Community involvement may look different, but it will always be on my to do list. Maybe just a bit further down than in the past.