? for those that have chronically ill spouse

[Susie in MS]

My dh has been disabled for a long time now, and has just not gotten a diagnosis of Cervical and Lumbar Strain. Strain totally doesn't sound as bad as it truly is and varies from person to person. He is in pain 24/7 and is unable to work for more than a few minutes. However, unlike some of your spouses ( I read the April thread) he is able to walk and has not been near death (unless you count the thoughts of suicide because of pain).

I am sure that at least some of you have had to go to work to replace a portion of your dh's income. Right now I have a great job that was purely a move of God in our lives. I do pt care-giving for a wonderful elderly lady who is 100% unable to do anything including talk. Her dh actually offered for me to bring dd to their house to hs.So you can see how this is a blessing. Not only am I able to hs before being totally exhausted from the day, but my dd is being exposed to a part of life that is reality for many and learning about caring for those in need (reminds me of some of the FIAR books). But how long this job will last is anyone's guess as this sweet lady has lived 3 years past the doc's expectations. So I am looking at the very real probability that the disability appeals panel will not approve dh for disability and I will have to find another job in the near future. So my question is this: what have you done in your family setting to make work and hsing possible. What changes have you made?

[Amy Joy]

We are very blessed and 4 yrs ago my dh got approved for disability. However, I have brought young children into the home to care for and picked up cleaning jobs. those combined made it enough that I could stay home. My dc were also able to come and help me clean. I'm so glad God has provided for you in the way He has for now. We know He will continue too!

[Katie]

We have been blessed by a job for me in which I stay at home as a medical transcriptionist/editor. They pretty much allowed me to set my own hours, so I work early in the morning before Lydia is awake. She is 11yo and can work independently on some things for school until 10 a.m., and then we school together. I worked 25 hours a week during the school year.

I am soooooooo thankful for this situation! God is good...all the time!

[Susie in MS]

Thank you! You both are very inspiring!