“Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” -Michael J. Fox

I recently read a post on Twitter that November is National Family Caregivers Month (US) where appreciation and thanks are given to those who care for their family members with illnesses. We have a similar thing here in Canada in May. Regardless of the day, month, or year, I felt compelled to acknowledge Garth (my husband) as the Rockstar, Superhero, Caregiver in my life!

While I am not yet at a stage, where significant caregiving is required, we both know where Parkinson’s leads, and I feel I can say confidently that he is up for the challenge!

Parkinson’s is my disease, but in a way, it has become his as well.

From the day of my diagnosis, he has involved himself in learning all that he can about Parkinson’s Disease, has joined me for my MDS (movement disorders specialist) appointments, and attended conferences with me. And in the day to day activities of life, Garth makes sure the front walkway is clear of ice/snow, reminds me to look where I’m walking to avoid falls, cooks me healthy meals, calms me from those vivid ‘scream out’ dreams (that’ll be a future blog post…), as well a million other things required to manage our household. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, he has diligently kept our family safe and continues to do so. Much of this is fueled by his concern for my health and complications that could occur should I contract the virus.

When I fell and broke my leg in June, he managed everything.

Caregivers are the ‘behind the scenes’ or ‘backstage’ crew that truly make the whole production work. At times, I’m sure it feels as though an Ironman suit would help, but he doesn’t need it. And although he deserves the applause and cheering heard at a Pearl Jam concert (his favourite band), he doesn’t expect it!

He’s just doing his thing and he’s very good at it! I’m so lucky!

I guess one of the good things about Parkinson’s is that progression (at least in my case) moves slowly which offers both of us the time to adjust to our roles as caregiver and care-receiver! Care-receiving is a strange thing (another future blog post). I have three sons whose roles are quietly evolving into that of ‘caregiver’ – but I’m not quite prepared to write about this developing role-reversal just yet. I try not to get too far ahead of myself!

Today I just say, “Thank you Garth!”