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Who helps you with your condition?
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dunecitymike
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Seventeen years ago my wife of 39 years died, and after a year of grieving, I volunteered at the food pantry, where I worked for 11 years. When my deteriorating health due to emphysema forced me to quit my volunteer job, I had accumulated several good friends among fellow volunteers. One who is also a neighbor picks up my mail for me and takes me to medical appointments, while another does my grocery shopping for me and puts out my trash for pick-up every other week. We were in our late 60s when my wife died, and had saved quite a bit for extended retirement which was now all mine. I have been able to give my helper-friends substantial cash Christmas presents. I am blessed.
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Mike Herbert
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bluesfan!
@dunecitymike Hi
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your wife. Right now my husband is the one that is by me and I cannot imagine him no longer with me. I suppose in that case I would turn to other family members living near by. But it is nice to hear you made friends volunteering. I would like to get into something like that soon.
dunecitymike
Good advisor
@bluesfan! I highly recommend volunteering. Volunteers are the absolute nicest people! It also puts more purpose into your life.
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Mike Herbert
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HelenDz
I suffer with fibromyalgia, depression and bpd. At times things are so bad with my fibro that I can't get out of bed, and then this leads me down the path into depression. My husband is great. Even though he works 12hr shifts, he still finds the time to look after me and make sure I'm cared for.
My way of paying back, is, when I'm in my good days, I fill the freezer with batch cooking so he doesn't have to cook, I bake him goodies (he has a seriously sweet tooth!) I always do the online shopping so he doesn't have to worry about stuff like that, I do the extra bits from the sofa or bed electronically on bad days so he doesn't have to. So he can care of me. I take care of that stress for him. And he is surprised to find its done.
He feels guilty about going out with his friends, he is a freemason and a biker, but I tell him that I want a duvet day and watch chick flicks - that soon makes him feel better about going, even then he still leaves a small flask of coffee and goodies/sandwiches for me. He needs his time away from me doing his thing with guys, relaxing.
Steve610
Hi, currently I don't have anyone helping me. Somedays are better than others, not easy at times but when I get down, a little alcohol seems to help me.
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Steve610
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dunecitymike
Good advisor
@Steve610 There are few problems alcohol can't make worse.
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Mike Herbert
Steve610
@dunecitymike living alone with hiv isn't easy, alcohol helps me get through every day, thanks for responding
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Steve610
HelenDz
@Steve610 nothing like a glass or 3 of wine at the end of the day to hide behind.... sometimes I'll go weeks drinking every night, trying to hide the pain, and my husband knows what I'm doing and knows that I'll stop when I'm ready. Then I won't drink again for ages.
Steve610
@HelenDz hi, please let me know if my original message went to you. Not sure if I sent correctly
Steve
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Steve610
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Millinda48
Good advisor
I am fortunate that I am able to do all my daily care activities and medical appointments myself. I have had a couple of hospital stays and my adult children have brought things from home for me. After a surgery when I couldn't drive, several of my friends gave me rides and brought food for a couple of weeks.
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Linda Miller
Louise123
Managing daily life with chronic illnesses can indeed present challenges, but there are several sources of support that can help
Healthcare professionals - Consult with your primary care physician or specialists who can provide guidance, prescribe appropriate medication, and offer treatment plans tailored to your condition. They can also help monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.
Caregivers or support network - Reach out to family members, friends, or support groups who can offer assistance with daily activities such as dressing, administering medication, or accompanying you to doctor's appointments. Having a reliable support system can make a significant difference in managing your condition.
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LizziB
Community managerGood advisor
Hello
How is everyone doing today? 🙂
Sometimes daily life is made more complicated by chronic illnesses. Getting dressed, administering medication, going to the doctor, etc.
Does anyone help you do these things? Who is it? In what ways do you show your gratitude?
Let's share!
Take care,
Lizzi