I have said it before and I will say it again my fiancé is my #1 favorite human on earth at all times. Now I know I am biased when I say that, but I can't help it- he completes me in more ways than one.
He is the most selfless/hardworking/kind man I have ever met. He takes care of me in ways I am not capable and is constantly filling in the cracks for me. I say this because I know I am not the only one who is "chronically challenged" as I like to say and has someone who assists them to be a bit more "normal."
This is article is a love letter to people like me and to those like Michael who plays the role of their rock.
They help you when you can't help yourself.
Today my fiance got up, drove to Publix, did the light grocery shopping that I was unable to do yesterday, dropped it off at my house, went into work for 10+ hours, and still managed to surprise me at my work with dinner. He did this because he knew that if he did not I would be living off of peanut butter sandwiches and cereal. He did this not because he was asked but just because he loves me. When you have challenges in life like I do even menial tasks can become impossible. Having someone who can run these errands for me shortens my mile-long to-do list.
They understand when you "can't."
The other day my fiance had planned for us to go to a crazy cool haunted house in Dade City. The problem? Long drives are rough for me and I don't do well in unfamiliar environments. I was feeling "low on spoons" so we settled for dinner and a movie instead. That night wore me out, but it was the best compromise I could think of. Many times I can't adventure further than my couch but Michael is ever faithful and kind enough to enjoy nights in just as much as nights out, even though I am a major homebody and he is not.
They make you laugh through the pain.
Due to my conditions, I am often in pain and exhausted. This can range from severe indigestion to muscle cramps and headaches. When my body has enough, it is not shy about letting me know, but Michael has an uncanny way of making things better. Whether he turns my tears into laughter or just makes me smile and breaks through the fog, I am grateful that joy is a constant in my life because of him.
They appreciate the small things.
There are a million ways Michael helps me and yet only a few I can do in return. And yet every time I pack him a lunch and remind him to eat it, or just give him a kiss and a thank you, he is grateful. It is not because these moments are rare, but rather because he understands and loves me regardless. I for one do my best to show my love for him in every way I am able.
They support you no matter what.
Recently we have come to the conclusion that a service dog would be a helpful addition to my treatment plan. This was not a decision made lightly but rather one we spent a lot of time and prayer on. Both to lighten his load and give me back some of the independence I have lost over the years.
Although we are just starting that particular journey, I know I wouldn't be able to do it without him. He has encouraged me every step of the way, even when I doubted myself. He lovingly supports me and encourages me to pursue a better life for myself.
Michael is a daily reminder to me of how Jesus loves us, and although he is not perfect, he is simply perfect to me. Although he hates the term "caretaker," that is a role he often embodies as we wade through the unknown that is often my life. I know there are thousands of others out there just like him lovingly giving all they have to the people they love and to them I say thank you. We will forever be grateful for you!
