A Young Wife’s Tale

I don’t know that I’ve ever used David’s arthritis as an excuse to get out of something, but I have said these words a few times, “Honey, I’m not glad you have arthritis, but I’m we don’t have to go to X because of your arthritis.” Terrible, I know. It’s so difficult for us to get out and do stuff, you’d think I’d jump at every opportunity to leave the house.

The reason I go with him is because David tends to put on a happy face in front of other people. I’ve lost count of the number of people who’ve told me, “You’d never know David had arthritis.” He doesn’t complain. He minimizes his symptoms, even with his doctors.

You might be a couple with chronic illness if…

In your opinion, the most important part of marriage vows is “in sickness and in health” and you give books about chronic illness and marriage as wedding presents.

You refer to the restaurant next to your specialist’s office as “our place”. You have so many memories of that restaurant.

The Aftermath or My Recovery from David’s Flare Up Part 2 I’m getting the house under control. I just dusted the whole house, in the hopes that it would make my throat feel better. My allergies are always severe in the fall, and they’ve started up early this year, probably due to all the rain [...]

1. Make sure you have a support system. For me, this is my family and a few close friends. You may want to utilize a Sunday School teacher, a counselor, or a support group for caregivers. Check out Rest Ministries Hope Keepers groups.
2. Take care of yourself. Exercise, eat right, have a hobby. The healthier you are spiritually, mentally, and physically, the better you will be able to help your spouse.
3. Educate yourself. Read everything the doctors gives you. Do research on the internet. Read up on your health insurance. Get to know your pharmacist and ask them questions about your spouse’s meds. Knowledge is power.