Here is an update on my experience of having my beloved husband, Val, age 98, admitted to our nursing facility on March 31st.
Initially, it was like a divorce (of which I have had considerable experience) and my heart felt like I would never recover. But time heals and I now know that "Care Giver Syndrome" is something that deserves a lot of respect.
Val is happy and content. He likes his room and his room mate, the food, and the staff. I visit twice a day, once taking over his little Chihuahua, "Me, Too" and once to walk the halls with him to support his continued mobility.
I am allowed to do little things for him like hydration, hearing aid and dental bridge maintenance...etc. so I still feel like I am contributing to his well being. And little, by little, I am accepting this as "what is" and creating a continued relationship that is meaningful to both of us.
While I was in transition, I put his picture up by my name so you could visualize him and today I've changed it back to my picture. I deeply appreciate your interest, prayers and incantations, "atta girl" posts and intentions. Bless your hearts one and all for helping me over this latest bump in the road of life.
Sending love,
Luise