One of the first entries I ever wrote in this blog was about exercising. It started with “We both need to take care of our physical needs, and that means exercise and healthy eating, so that we are always battle ready.” I didn’t realize at the time just how true those words would prove to be.

My husband needed to exercise to slow the progression of his disease. I now know that my need to exercise was not to maintain, but to build musculature so I would be able to manage the many new duties I am asked to do. Besides the extra tasks around the house, I need strength to lift, load and place the equipment we use every day. It was easy when all he needed for mobility was a cane, now it’s a walker and will someday be a transfer or wheelchair. Hefting those things in and out of the car isn’t an easy task but is made better because I have been working out with light weights and resistance bands. That doesn’t even take into account the other accommodations I handle regularly like bedrails, transfer poles and shower chairs.

I like to think of my role as his exercise coach, but the reality is that I need it perhaps more than he does these days. It takes strength, stamina, and fortitude to make it through without injuring myself. I may complain about working out, yet I know that I need it. I find I usually have the capacity and the ability necessary to meet any challenge thanks to all the effort I have been putting out over the past few years.