Man devoted to wife suffering with Parkinson’s fulfills his vows.
Dear Abby:
I’m writing in response to “Requires Companionship” (Feb. 7), whose husband has atypical Parkinson’s and she’s considering dating. My wife was diagnosed nine years ago, and she, too, has reached the point where she can no longer walk, write or speak. We have, however, found ways to communicate and spend quality time together.
I tried to care for her at home, but over the past year and a half, it became too difficult. With the help of our daughters, we found a wonderful senior living place where she is happy. I go to the gym every morning, then visit with her and have lunch. I bring her clothes home to wash and take care of anything she may need or want. We spend the holidays together with the family at her place to make things special.
We are both 81, married 57 years. I, too, am lonely and sad at times, but I love her more than the world and want to make sure she is well taken care of and content. As for companionship, I have met some wonderful people at the senior living place, as well as at the gym and in restaurants I frequent, which helps with the loneliness.
If the shoe were on the other foot, I know she’d do the same for me. Jim in Nevada
Dear Abby:
I am a young 57-yearold woman. My husband has Parkinson’s and brain tumors. We have a son with autism, so I have been a caregiver for more than 30 years of marriage.
To “Requires” I say: Take time for yourself, but do not tell your husband. Enjoy what years you have left and grab some of the happiness you deserve. Don’t let anyone tell you that you are cheating on your husband. The life you had with him was over emotionally and physically long ago. You have given up enough of your life. Your husband is having all his needs met and now it’s your turn.
Yes, I believe in marriage. But who is going to worry about you? People who judge you don’t understand and won’t understand. Joining a support group may help, but don’t put yourself on the back burner. You count, too. God bless. Sandra in New Jersey
Dear Abby:
“R.C.’s” husband didn’t ask for this disease. He is feeling lonely, too, but he is not dead. She should work on developing a different approach to communicating with him. These patients may lose the ability to speak, but not the ability to think clearly and see what is going on around them. Been There
DearAbby.com Dear Abby P.O. Box 69440 Los Angeles, CA 90069 Andrews McMeel Syndication