your post, and thinking of what a hard time this is for both of you. Yet you are able to identify some good things -- not "good" because of this, but in spite of it. I appreciate hearing this -- actually, I really needed to hear it -- because of some ongoing difficulties with people I love who are enduring the horrors of MS, and a good friend who's son is in the late stages of ALS.
I'm also reminded of two years ago, a short time after getting out of the ICU for my brain injury, I decided to visit my youngest at her college. It was a two hour drive, and clearly I knew my doctors were wrong in telling me not to even try such a thing. I made it there without problem, though my daughter scolded me for doing so. On the drive home, I suddenly realized I had no idea where I was, or where I was heading.
It took me much longer than usual to eventually find my way home. My daughter had been calling to make sure I had made it, and was furious when I told her why I was late. Needless to say, she accompanied me to an unscheduled doctor's visit the next week (she drove). Now, that doctor, by chance, had been my 6th grade sweetheart, and remains a friend. (It's her son with ALS.) My daughter refered to me as "stupid," and she said it was more of my being "stubborn." Then they compromised, and agreed I was stupid and stubborn, not a good combination. It led to my two sons agreeing that they would take turns staying with me, as if I were a helpless old fool.
Though I can smile about it as I discuss it now, I do remember how scary it was for me, getting lost on a route I had driven frequently for years. And how upsetting it was for those around me.
I also know how much joy a dog can bring. Your post reminded me of when my German Shepherd was a puppy, and the pleasure I had knowing him in his lifetime. They are great beings.
I will be keeping you and your husband in my thoughts, and I hope that you have the chance to keep me updated on how things are going for you. (One of my nieces lives in Seattle, and it sounds like it is difficult at this time.)
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