In Sickness and In Health

Over the past 6 weeks David and I have had a little taste of that aspect of our vows.
To his credit David has been amazing, and I’m sure it has been frustrating at times! Having broken my foot at a friend’s house ( I slipped and fell, landing on a bike with my foot beneath me!) I have been very much out of action.

I suffered a lot of pain with 3 broken bones and have been unable to work, walk, and pretty much do anything for myself. To get as far as the bathroom or the lounge I’d hobble on crutches, to go out anywhere we made use of a wheelchair.

I am lucky enough to have a husband who works from home and was able to care for me. During this time I was obviously not bringing in an income for most of it, reminding us also of the words ‘For richer, for poorer’!.

It has been a tricky experience, during which we have realized just how small our shower is (it is not built for a chair!) and I have become very familiar with the sponge bath. We have spent almost a full 6 weeks no more than a room apart with him pretty much having to do everything for me, while also trying to keep on top of his workload.

We have realized just how unfriendly the world can be when you’re disabled – every cracked and sloped pavement is a hurdle and every store and restaurant seems to have at least a couple of stairs to get in the door.

I have been pretty wowed by David’s love and care for me as he has pushed me around outside when I just can’t take another moment cooped up in the lounge, cooked and cleaned around me, brought me books movies and craft to try to keep me amused and take my mind off what I should be doing now at work, and during the worst of my pain and medication haze even helped me wash and dress. He has been endlessly patient, tirelessly helpful, and constantly loving. It is good to know that whatever happens, I can count on him and he will be there for me. My commitment to him is just as strong, and although I hope I never have to, if he was injured and needed my care I would devote myself to him fully. Compassion is such an uplifting thing when you are hurt. David showed me how much he cared, nearly in tears himself when I was in the worst of the pain.

I am so thankful. If you think we’ve had it rough recently, see the article on a couple that contracted swine flu just before their wedding. They still got married!