I was a caregiver to my mom for over a decade. I was dx in the middle of it all. Rhonda, I surely pay great tribute to those who go through the angst and heartache of caring for a loved one who is declining in their ability to care for themselves.
And, I too know firsthand the toll it takes on *our* well-being, far beyond the demands of our time. As I have learned from many sources -- OUR PSYCHOLOGY IMPACTS OUR PHYSIOLOGY. What we think and the emotions we are enmeshed in effect our physical health. KNOWING this can arm and EMPOWER us to proceed w/caution.
When my husband was ill for months over this past summer, as I kept on top of all the docs and nurses and tx and hospitalizations, and what needed doing at home (w/my dogs and garbage and laundry and marketing and trips to the surgical supply store and way more) -- I made it a point to meditate (calming and grounding scattered myself) and praying (connecting w/God and the Universe).
Sorry to get all spiritual here, but we must each never forget to HONOR THE DIVINITY THAT RESIDES WITHIN US ALL... Sending loving energy to all my Sisters and Brothers and those who give their all to us,
Andi 