Commented on a discussion 5/13/2009 at 7:35 pm
Hi Roxie. You have my heartfelt sympathies girlfriend. My parents moved in with my husband and I over 19 years ago. I witnessed my dad's decline, and death. Up until then my mother was vibrant, in
...Read MoreHi Roxie. You have my heartfelt sympathies girlfriend. My parents moved in with my husband and I over 19 years ago. I witnessed my dad's decline, and death. Up until then my mother was vibrant, independent and alive. Since his death, she is a myriad of medical problems. I have given up a life outside of helping her. I can't work, but need the money, and my husband's business is suffering. My brothers live out of state and do nothing for me. My husband and I went to counseling because the stress was affecting our relationship and our therapist told us that my brothers should pay for us to go away one weekend every month, and pay for someone to come and stay with mom. I laughed at her, because that is the response I get from my brothers. I understand your sadness at watching the woman who raised you turn into a child that you now need to care for. All I can tell you is that you need an hour to yourself everyday. Go for a walk, telephone some old friends, read a book, or watch a TV program you enjoy. I also found that journaling helps. Sometimes writing your feelings down and expressing them on paper helps. Even if no one else hears or reads them. Look yourself in the mirror and realize that you are a wonderful daughter, and the love and the care that you are giving your mother will bring you memories and comfort long into your old age. Its tough, so when you need to - cry. I know my response is not timely, and almost a year late, but I hope you are still here, and reading the posts. If you ever need to talk to someone, let me know, and I will give you my email address. Hang in there, you are not alone.