Family
I admit I am very fortunate to have a loving, supportive family. Not everyone does. My first suggestion to a family is to educate yourself about About Lupus . Pay attention to what the patient is going through. Lupus is not going to go away. Be understanding, encouraging and offer as much support as possible. Living with a chronic illness is very difficult. There are times the pain can be unbearable causing depression. Unless a person actually experiences the illness it is difficult to understand what the patient is going through. A family needs to find and define its own pathway. It is important to help the patient but at the same time do not do everything. The lupus patient is not handicapped and even though there will be times he/she cannot get out of bed there will be days when he/she appears healthy. Do not become a crutch for the patient.
The lupus patient should recognize the feelings of their family as well as their own. Because lupus is so complex it can disrupt family life and put additional stress on family members. Maybe you've made plans to attend a special function or parents are requested to work at a child's school science fair and suddenly the lupus flares up and bed rest is the only solution. Stress builds up not only in you, the lupus patient, but your spouse and child as well. Remember they have feelings too and are doing their best to help you. Try not to ask for more than you actually need. When you have a good day, let it reflect on them because they deserve a pat on the back now and then. If you are married set time aside just for the two of you. Since you live by the moment that can be a "Last minute surprise" for your spouse. Tell your family how much they mean to you and how helpful they are.
I recommend all family members attend any support group meetings they can. It is not only beneficial for the patient but for the family as well. Living with lupus can be very challenging. Living with a lupus patient can seem impossible and frustrating to all family members.
My Lupus World Index
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Reserved for Future
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Reserved for Future
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March 2002 - I have created a new website - my own domain too! Please stop by and vist me. I have so much to do there but I am open for visitors. Just click Cathie's Collection and you will be there.
Beyond My Lupus World Index
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