Caregiveritis
 

We're not crazy, just all suffering from the same affliction. No, I don't mean LBD, I mean "Caregiveritis". I keep "turning myself in" here and keep getting validated and affirmed, instead of convicted. What kind of crazy people are you? (And aren't I glad that you are!)

Symptom #1: Inflammation of the body, ie., aches in the feet, knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists, neck and head. The cause: tugging, pushing, pulling, stooping, lifting and holding a loved one suffering with LBD.

Symptom #2: Inflammation of emotions, ie., flaring of temper, shooting off of mouth, steady flow of tears, plunging feelings of hopelessness followed by soaring feelings of hope and daily battles with denial. The cause: frustration, loss of dreams, loss of life as we hoped it would be, helplessness, lack of sleep and inability to cope with this roller coaster known as LBD.

Solution: Yes, I'm with you in being thankful that you are all out there somewhere waiting to give support when it's needed.

Caring is overwhelming, but I've decided that no one can care for my husband like I can. Even when I'm angry or upset. It's never at him, but at the situation. I've surprised myself at what I've accomplished - things I never had to do before. I still breakdown and wish I had my strong, reliable husband to lean on and help in the decision making, but I usually end up doing okay.

I think we've all gone through the crying. I wish I could tell you it will eventually end - sorry! If you're like me it will lessen, but then spill over at the most inopportune times. Like in the garage surrounded by mechanics when you take your car in for repair. Or in the aisle of the grocery store, or at Wal-Mart when someone says something nice to you. Or, or, or.... I agree with your comment about grief; that you are grieving the future, or lack of it. I was told by a nurse that it's called chronic grief. In death, the grief overwhelms and then you slowly start healing because you know where you stand - you see the end. With LBD, the grief is ongoing, a daily painful reminder of our loss, and we have no idea where or when the pain will end. It's the living in limbo that's difficult. This is where the support group has been such a help to me. There are others to lift you up when you're down, and you are given the opportunity to lift them up when they're down. Whatever you are going through, someone has already been there - and survived. Maybe even grown a bit stronger. I trust that our words bring encouragement and help, and that you realize that you are cared about.