06 MS "CARE PARTNERS"


TREVIS GLEASON LIFE WITH MS


There is a lot of Politically Correct language out there in the world of multiple sclerosis and disabilities in general.


One of the terms bantered about is “Care Partner”. This replaces caregiver and other terms deemed by some to be demeaning and misunderstood. I like “care partner” as it gives a sense that people are in the thing together and working in tandem.


I’ve thought that Caryn will be a good care partner to me if and when my MS progresses “that far”. Then, a couple of weeks ago, I had something of an epiphany. She already is my care partner…even when I don’t think I need care! Those of us who live with this disease at any stage, be it in remission or in the midst of a full-on attack, rely on others in our everyday lives. Caryn lives with my MS every single day, just like I do.


Of course not in the same way I do; but even though she doesn’t have the symptoms she experiences many of them along with me. We check in, like any couple does, about things in our day – week – life. I’d like to think that it’s a little bit updated from the Ward & June Cleaver days of, “…and how was your day, Dear?” But it’s the same concept. In both of our minds, however, one of the things we’re doing is checking up on the nasty 9 year-old in our relationship (Man, wouldn’t I like to send IT to boarding school!!!)


CARE E-MAGAZINE: SPRING 2013


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