It's impossible to have a good career while caretaking
Submitted by: Rebecca, South Lyon
I was recently in a terrible car accident and my husband had to do everything for me because neither of my hands were able to move. I had just finished taking care of him due to a hamstring repair surgery, so he was happy to help me. I also cared for my mom when she had Lewy body dementia. None of these were paid positions. I have taken care of my son who has autism for nearly 38 years. I could not work until he went to school all day, and even then had to be home when he was, such as holidays and summer, because he was a danger to himself. He grew to be a little more independent in his 20s but still needs a lot of care. He is now married to a cerebral palsy patient, and I care for her as well. In addition, we had two other young ladies in the home for 10 years who I cared for. It's been a long and hard journey, but I have a lot to give. I have been honored to help them all, but it's not easy and it's impossible to have a good career while doing it. I've struggled with debt for years and am not sure what will happen to the debt or to my son and his wife when I am gone. This haunts me constantly.