Hello everyone! I've been reading your posts for quite sometime now and they have been very helpful. I've never posted anything anywhere on any website,but I desperately need the support of people like you who understand and have the same aching heart that I do. My story is somewhat complicated and you will probably think I don't belong here, but bear with me. In 2001 my adult daughter divorced and living out of state tried to commit suicide twice. First by taking an overdose and spending 2 weeks in the hospital. The second attempt by jumping out the third story window of a brick apartment building. She smashed her face on the side of th building but was caught and pulled back in in the nick of time. when I heard that I flew out to where she was living drove her back and took over her care. Found her a Psychiatrist. She was diagnosed with Bi- Polar disorder. Since then she has had (all separate incidents) 3 auto accidents with Er visits 2 where she totalled the cars completely with minor injuries to herself. She has broken both arms, fractured her ankle and broken her ribs. In between has had other hospitalizations. Of course I was the one to respond to all these emergencies.My husband was no help since he does not like to drive. My nerves were shot! Then a couple years ago I began to notice subtle changes in my DH. Then in September 2007 he was diagnosed with Alzheimers. To try and shorten this I will explain the signs some other time. Here I am taking care of my daughter and my DH. He was diagnosed as moderate so I know this is as good as it gets. I'm 72 my DH is 75 my daughter is 36. My heart is aching and breaking for them both and I just hope I can keep up my physical and emotional strength to see all this through. Thanks for listening. Texannie
Texannie, You have come to the right place - these people will help you with encouragement, advice, and by simply being good "listeners". This group will understand so much of what you are going thru - some of us in more ways than one. Our foster daughter (age 30) is also bipolar and has been hospitalized 4 times in the last year due to suicidality, cutting herself, and fantasizing about killing her sweet little one. My husband is doing significantly better with Aricept for which I'm thankful as he and I have had to have the little one in our home for several months. I hope and pray that you will feel comforted by the care you will receive at this site. I know it has helped me a lot! I'm sending you warm thoughts of hope and strength.
Texannie, my goodness you do have your hands and heart full of grief. its bad enough having to deal with your daughters complicated life, thenon top of it all your husband with AD. I know you are overwhelmed. maybe you could contact the nearest Alz assoc if not in your city then the biggest city near you- explain to them your situation. they can offer you good advice and maybe offer suggestions on who to contact to help you out with some added govt benefits. hugs to you, i know its difficult- i am also a Texan. my best to you, divvi
Hi Texannie and welcome! I am so sorry for all that you are dealing with! WOW!! I guess it is hard to know where to focus at all times! I am glad you are where you can share though , this is a very supportive group, thanks to joan and I do hope we can be of help to you. Our prayers are with you! decblu
Texannie, I thought my life was tough until I read your post. I have never found a more supportive group of people on this earth. This site will be the answer to your prayers. I have learned so much in just a week! Everyone will listen to everything with the utmost patience. Spill your guts, go ahead. Everyone is here for you, you are not alone. Have questions? They will answer. Feel down, they will support you. Feel alone, they are here. You have come to a great place!