[earlharp2010]

My name is David and am caregiver for my 81 yr old mother, 24/7, for about 8 months now starting to feel the burn, no where to go no escape in sight. In March of this year she was diagnosed with Bulbar ALS. Presently she can barely walk with my help, no talking only on whiteboard, and all nutrition thru peg tube. I quit my job and moved in with her to avoid her being in a nursing home.
One alcoholic sister who has minimal involvement but is mom,s favorite,and can do no wrong. Talk about sharing the disease with Mom, at least emotionally.Heavy feeling of isolation and helplessness. Tired and worn out

[tamiloo]

David, First I wanted to you to Neuro Talk. Also it would be a great way to introduce yourself in the New Member Introductions Forum.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum88.html

Being a caregiver is sometimes on of those thankless jobs. I met my husband about ten years ago and was his caregiver before we said "I do". He was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 25 years ago. My Mom who is 87 moved in with us in 2007 so I do understand your isolation and sometimes helplessness.

People always tell me that I need to take care of myself...however by the time I get everyone up and happy I'm too burned out to do anything for myself. My heart goes out to you David and all you do. Sometimes I will go outside and just scream....! I do keep a Caregiver Journal just in my Microsoft word program and password protect it so no one can read what I write. I write about all the medical stuff so I can refer back to what and when things happen and also any prescription changes. I do vent also!!

Nothing wrong with venting...anytime you want to come online to vent feel free. Hey I'm online everyday so just vent away!

I put some forums that might help below...you can drop in anywhere...lots of great folks.

This first link is for Social Chat...they talk about almost anything.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum35.html

This Forum is a Sanctuary for Spiritual Support...great folks ready to listen.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum27.html

Oh, and I over looked this forum...for ALS...
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum6.html

Hope you can find some peace in the love and service you give to your Mom...

[Twinkletoes]

Originally Posted by earlharp2010

My name is David and am caregiver for my 81 yr old mother, 24/7, for about 8 months now starting to feel the burn, no where to go no escape in sight. In March of this year she was diagnosed with Bulbar ALS. Presently she can barely walk with my help, no talking only on whiteboard, and all nutrition thru peg tube. I quit my job and moved in with her to avoid her being in a nursing home.
One alcoholic sister who has minimal involvement but is mom,s favorite,and can do no wrong. Talk about sharing the disease with Mom, at least emotionally.Heavy feeling of isolation and helplessness. Tired and worn out

Have you called to see if she qualifies for Hospice? I was my Dad's caregiver for the final few months of his life and Hospice was a lifesaver for ME! They give baths, medical support and will even sit with your dear Mom while you have a 2-3 hour break.

Your local hospital will be able to give you a phone number for Hospice services.

Your dear mother is blessed to have you for a son. Hugs to both of you.

[Abbie]

Hello David
and
WELCOME to Neurotalk!!

Tamiloo has giving you some great links to get you started!!!

Please do come to the New Members Introduction Forum and introduce yourself!! We love new members!!

Roam around all of the forums!!! Join in anywhere!!! Please feel free to help others where you can and ask questions when you need!!

You have found a wonderful place full of very kind and caring people!!

I look forward to seeing you around the boards!

Abbie

[tied]

i can only offer camaderie. i care for my sprite and intelligent 90 yr old dad, but recently with my cancer surgery we both care for each other. i feel for you and admire your style.