Life Partner

My guy and I have been together for 41 years, married for 39.  So many moments and so many memories. We started dating on the day I graduated from college. It was a whirlwind courtship that evolved into a strong relationship with love, respect and lots of fun. We enjoyed years together as a couple and then started our family. Our sons were an extension of us as we grew from a couple to a family. 

My husband has been an amazing dad. How wonderful it has been watching him teach our boys about life.  Now our sons are men and their bond with their dad is stronger than ever. They still seek his advice and guidance about so many things, but sometimes they just hang out and have fun together.  It brings me so much joy seeing all of my boys together.

As with all partnerships, there have been challenging times that tested us. But together we weathered the storms and ended up stronger and closer. My Parkinson’s has been yet another bump in our road and my guy has been here for me in so many ways. He is here for the simple practical things like taking me to the doctors, the labs, and the pharmacy. He is here for the harder tasks like walking with me in the middle of the night when my tremors just won’t stop and I need to move. He is here to massage my tired muscles after a bad day of jiggling. And he is here  with an empathic ear when I just need to vent. In short, he is always here for me. 

All people with  a chronic disease understand the importance of having someone here for them. I mean, really here. It is invaluable and I never take it for granted. Some days, he knows that a good laugh is just the right medicine. Other days, he simply extends a hand for me to hold. But what is truly priceless is his ability to know what I need even when I cannot articulate it. Only a real soulmate can do this. 

So, thank you, my guy, for being an amazing life partner and please know that I am here for you too.