In sickness and in health
Submitted by: LW, Ypsilanti
Thankfully I am recovered so am no longer needing ongoing care, but after my first and second cancer diagnosis within only a few years of each other, my wife was thrown into the role of medical caregiver whether she was ready or not. When we say "In sickness and in health" during wedding vows, most couples are not envisioning just how likely it is that they or their spouse will need them to step into a caregiver role for an illness or injury. I feel very blessed because my wife was nothing short of amazing, both in taking care of me directly and indirectly (managing the household, coordinating doctor's visits, even picking up the slack financially). I now think that younger people should really ask themselves, "Do I feel confident this person would be there for me and take care of me if I got sick/injured?" if they're contemplating a future with someone. Don't wait until the unexpected (but statistically likely) medical diagnosis to find out.