In Sickness And In Health - The Key to a Strong and Lasting Relationship

When it comes to relationships, there is one aspect that can truly test the bond between two individuals like no other - sickness. In sickness and in health, this phrase is often recited during wedding vows, but its true significance goes far beyond a mere promise to care for one another when unwell. This article delves into the importance of persevering through sickness together, and how it can strengthen and solidify a relationship.

The Challenges of Sickness

Sickness is a natural part of life, and sooner or later, both partners in a relationship are bound to face health issues. Whether it be a common cold, a chronic illness, or a debilitating condition, illness can put a strain on even the happiest of couples. The physical and emotional toll it takes on both individuals can be overwhelming, and if not handled correctly, it can lead to resentment, frustration, and even the breakdown of a relationship.

During illness, the affected partner requires support, comfort, and understanding from their loved one. This can involve accompanying them to doctor appointments, helping with daily tasks, and providing emotional reassurance. It may also involve making adjustments to lifestyle and plans, and sometimes sacrificing personal needs for the well-being of the other person. While it may seem challenging, these acts of selflessness can ultimately deepen the bond between partners.

A Well Spouse Love Story: In Sickness and in Health

by Michael Shriver (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	669 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Building True Empathy

In sickness, partners are given the opportunity to develop a greater sense of empathy towards one another. Witnessing the pain and vulnerability of a loved one can evoke a profound compassion that may not have been fully realized otherwise. This newfound empathy extends beyond the duration of the illness, permeating into the relationship as a whole.

Through empathy, partners become better equipped to understand each other's emotions, needs, and struggles. This increased understanding fosters open communication and a sense of unity, as both individuals learn to truly listen and offer unwavering support. It reinforces the idea that the relationship is a safe space, where both partners can lean on each other during both the good and challenging times in life.

Strength Through Adversity

As the saying goes, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger." The same can be said for relationships that endure sickness together. Going through difficult periods can test the resilience and commitment of couples, but it can also provide an opportunity for growth and intimacy.

Sickness forces partners to confront their own mortality and vulnerability, making them appreciate the time they have together even more. The shared resilience and determination to overcome hardships cultivates a sense of teamwork and companionship that can help weather any storm.

The Benefits of In Sickness And In Health

While sickness may seem like a hindrance to a relationship, it also presents an opportunity for immense personal and relational growth. The act of caring for a sick partner allows individuals to develop a stronger sense of selflessness, patience, and compassion. It encourages a deeper understanding and appreciation for one another, leading to a more harmonious and fulfilling connection.

Moreover, weathering the storms of illness together only strengthens the foundation of trust, loyalty, and commitment in a relationship. Partners come to realize that they can rely on each other in times of need, instilling a sense of security and confidence in the partnership.

In

In sickness and in health, the commitment to stand by a partner through good and bad is a testament to the strength of a relationship. Sickness challenges couples, but it also presents an opportunity for growth, empathy, and intimacy. By supporting and caring for one another during illness, partners deepen their connection and ultimately build a strong and lasting bond.

A Well Spouse Love Story: In Sickness and in Health

by Michael Shriver (Kindle Edition)

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	669 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

What happens when Husband and Wife becomes Caregiver and Patient? I will tell you.

As a fixer-upper, I leaned on Shannon heavily in the first years of our marriage; I still had some growing up to do. For some reason, she liked me enough to keep around, and to be sure, it wasn't for the money.

Two kids later, we thought we were settling in, and finally settling down.

Some chronic conditions happen to you, they're not something you catch, like a cold or a virus. In our case, it was a surgical mistake during a routine hysterectomy. Some are genetic disorders you were born with, that show up later without warning. Shannon has one from each of those categories.

"During a simple medical procedure, a surgeon damaged a nerve, and our lives as we knew it would disappear. It went undetected, undiagnosed, and under-treated for over a year, and it progressed into an incurable nerve disorder called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (CRPS/RSD.)

About a year ago, Shannon's joints began self-dislocating. A connective tissue disorder called Ehler Danlos Syndrome introduced itself. 

Shannon needs a lot of help sometimes. These are my experiences as her well spouse and caregiver." 

"A Well Spouse Love Story" is about what happened when rare chronic illnesses changed a marriage and a family. It's about transcending seemingly hopeless circumstances, every single day.

"In the first year we saw easily dozens of doctors. Nobody knew what this was, so there was no clear consensus on what to do. You can't fix what you can't identify. Or, if this is some kind of rare illness, it needs to be treated by a specialist, not in the ER. See your primary care physician and get a referral. We did. Many times."

What do you do when doctors can't find the problem, and things are getting worse? How do you tell the kids another doctor can't find what's wrong with Mom? It's an emotional ride.

This is a true story. This is our life. The book talks about what we went through to get here, from finding the first diagnosis we didn't want, to now living with multiple chronic illnesses and getting through each day, over a decade later.

In a household living with incurable rare illnesses, overcoming the seemingly hopeless becomes a new set of life skills, and experience is the teacher. You learn to live invisibly, because nobody else can see what the crisis is, and you're tired of explaining it. It's easier to drop out if sight.

And what do you do when you know she doesn't want to go on? That's a real topic in the world of rare disorders, so there is a discussion about suicidal ideation and finding lifelines, as well as thoughts on acceptance and forward thinking.

Spoiler Alert: there are no cures, and I never turned into a prince. The saga continues.