It’s been a tough week at our house. My husband hurt his knee which has limited his mobility even more than normal. I had a fainting episode trying to help him and so together we’ve been a mess. I’m okay but working with my doctor to try and figure out why I fainted. My husband has been getting used to his new transport chair as he lets his leg and knee rest. Thank goodness for family, friends and in-home care or I don’t know how either of us would have made it through.

I was out on the floor next to our bed when my husband told me I needed to call someone for help. I agreed but told him it would have to wait until a bit later. Once we were both up, I reached out to our home care agency and they were able to send our caregiver over immediately. My next call was to my doctor’s office because I certainly didn’t want to go to the ER knowing how bad those visits can be. They were able to schedule an appointment in a couple of hours. I called my son and he accompanied me to the doctor’s office. He came back the next day to check in and take me grocery shopping. Finally, this is the week I have a monthly breakfast with fellow PD CarePartners, I texted one of them to let her know what happened and ask for help with the group since I won’t be able to attend.

It is tough for me to ask for help and even more difficult to accept it. In this case where both of us needed assistance, I knew I couldn’t manage. When my husband’s caregiver arrived she immediately stepped in to make sure I was okay too. My son was taking a few days off work but didn’t think twice when I called. My fellow CarePartners will be just fine without me. I am so thankful to have an awesome support network who provide care for both of us, I just hope they all understand that we are here for them too.