I read that and knew of it before. I think that it is more true when one doesn't have a strong support group such as we have here. I did see my dad give up when my mom died though. He quit walking, he basically didn't want to go on without mom. My mother in law, on the other hand, whom we all through would fall apart, has thrived. I, on the other hand, feel like my heart is literally breaking into pieces sometimes. Thus, am seeing the doctor tomorrow.
So basically - yes, we must all be aware of taking as good of care of ourselves as we did our spouse. I know that the past year I couldn't worry about myself...I was secondary. Now, I must make myself eat, try to get more sleep, and learn to stop crying as I can feel myself not as healthy as I should be.
Thanks for bringing this important subject up to us all.
Diana
Interesting, Steve. I really think it has a lot to do with age, how we take care of ourselves, and if we stay busy. My great grandfather died within 6 months of my great grandmother. I was a child, but I remember the family saying it was a broken heart. I went through some changes after taking care of Joe for 10 months. I was so full of energy when I was taking care of him, never sick, etc. Then when he died, it was like I hit a brick wall. Got a cold instantly, slept for days, started those dreadful hot flashes, etc. Doctor (who I see every 6 months) says the body chemistry changed and taking care of him and the stress of it pushed it along and it wasn't noticeable until afterwars. Anyway, I stay REALLY busy with work and the grandkids. Am even starting a new business that Joe was involved in and doing some traveling for it alone. Leave this week for Portland and Seattle for 10 days. So, I think we have to take care of US and be a little selfish, but still love and miss the one we lost. I know I do, but I think he'd be proud and I feel him behind me on these endeavors.
Betsy
