[lakens mom]

I am Mom and Caregiver in my home, not really sure which one comes first anymore. My 16 year old daughter has been sick for over 6 months now and has yet to be diagnosed, she needs help with most everything as her pain and balance is so bad. I also have 10 year old who would like some of Mommy's time, no matter who I am with I feel bad that I should be with the other. I was used to caring for others as I was a home health care worker until this all happened, but wow totally different when its at home with one of your loved ones. My husband tries to help but he works long hours to try and keep up with bills since we lost my income. Not to mention my 16 year old isn't comfortable with Dad helping her to bathroom and stuff. And when I have time with my 10 year old and we are playing a game or talking I find my self so tired that I begin to space off or doze off. Its crazy ! I keep telling myself that I can do this. But can I ?

[Jomar]

Is there any way to move dd closer to a bathroom?? or any assistive devices so she can make it on her own sometimes?
Like a walker or crutches? Was it her foot/leg??

If RSD/CRPS it might be a while till you find a expert Dr and get expert therapy that will benefit her.

[lakens mom]

Originally Posted by Jo*mar

Is there any way to move dd closer to a bathroom?? or any assistive devices so she can make it on her own sometimes?
Like a walker or crutches? Was it her foot/leg??

If RSD/CRPS it might be a while till you find a expert Dr and get expert therapy that will benefit her.

She really need's someone beside her as she get's dizzy and stumbles. and we have a bathroom upstairs or down stairs but none on main level of house. so it makes it kind of tuff. When she was injured she hurt her tail bone.

[Diandra]

You have my sympathy...I was sole caregiver to my 90 yr old Mom but just recently decided it was taking too much out of me. She is paying for it though.

A couple ideas for your daughter...what about a potty chair next to the bed that she can use when she needs. Do you have any insurance that might cover home care? If not, perhaps asking cousins, her friends, church friends, anyone to lend a hand? I have found in life, people who care about you all really do want to help, you just need to ask.

I will tell you what I was told...it will get to the point where her health and need for care will start affecting yours...and it did. I am not saying it is easy because all my Mom wants is me but I told her I just could not do it all. It might sound cruel but it was necessary. Also, you cannot give up being a Mom to your son and wife...not to mention your own life and friends and need for downtime.

I know it must be horrid to see your daughter suffer so much and hard to step back but...you need the down time. I wish you the best. Diandra

[dd in pain]

Welcome I know it a lot on you and your family I been taking care of my dd for 3 years and I have to do everything for her. She has a bedside potty it help a lot. A non-profit group came and built a ramp for the house and turn our shower to a walk in for her. I still everybody to look into any type you can find.