I so agree with Don, I have had good experience with family helping but honest communication is important on a regular basis. Best, Shirley Bell
www.ShirleyBellDesigns.com ----- Original Message ----- From: donald scott To: [email protected] Sent: Saturday, October 05, 2013 9:44 PM Subject: Re: [QUAD-L] Spouse as Caregiver? Hi group, I'm not comfortable saying much about my relationship status here because it doesn't just stay within the community and not end up on the web. I can say I have much experience in this area. Basically It comes down to no matter who cares for you be it a wife, parent, love one, or stranger do everything possible that you can do yourself. For the things you can't do yourself be patient, understanding, and grateful to those who are helping you. That doesn't mean you have to just let them do as they please with your care. Be clear with them what your full needs are. Be organized and make things go as easy as possible. IF AT ALL POSSIBLE GET OUTSIDE HELP. If you can pay someone else or get state help to do even small stuff, I think it's a great idea. Anything you can do to give your primary caregiver a break is recommended. Especially if it's someone you care about being in your life for a long time. If your in a dating or marriage situation and want it to last you must do as I said previously. As well as continually tell them how special and glad you are that they are willing to share all aspects of your life together. Being disabled means we have to work twice as hard to be romantic, sexually creative, and just plain nicer than normal people if we want love to last. Divert the care they have to do with fun, love, and laughs. Oh, and during your care periods try to keep things lite and fun when ever possible. When your together not doing quad and house stuff try really hard to make those times special. Those times can out way the quad times. My 2 cents, Donald C5-C6 22 years post
