In Sickness and in Health: Marriage and Chronic Illness

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by Marisa Zeppieri |

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Few couples hearing the term “in sickness and in health” at their wedding have thoughts of chronic illness enter their mind. But the reality is, with almost half of the American population dealing with some type of chronic illness, this should be something all couples consider.

Relationships, while they can be incredible, can also have their share of ups and downs — it’s only natural when you bring two people together who have different life experiences, lifestyles, personalities, etc. Add a chronic illness into the mix, and your relationship may feel a little crowded.

So how can couples — married or not — build a solid foundation and work together to make the most out of life despite illness? Well, I don’t have all the answers, but my husband and I have learned some things along the way that I want to share with you.

First, I want to share a quick story with you. My husband entered into our relationship 14 years ago knowing I had lupus. Sadly, some people warned him not to marry a “sick girl.” I’m grateful he didn’t listen to them, but my feelings were hurt when he confided these comments to me years later.

It seems they were worried that he would have to take care of me for the rest of his life and that I couldn’t give him children. His response was along the lines of: “Marrying the healthiest person in the world doesn’t remove the possibility that she could become sick or be in a horrible accident and need someone to care for her — people are in accidents or diagnosed with illnesses every day.” It warmed my heart that he stuck up for our relationship in the face of those who felt I would be a burden to him.

But the opposition didn’t stop there. If you are like me — you have a chronic illness and are in a relationship — there will undoubtedly be challenging times. To help you face these challenges and keep your partnership strong, here are a few pieces of advice that have worked for my husband and me:

  • Therapy can be an incredible tool: Communication in a relationship can present its own challenges. Working with a neutral party (your therapist) can help you and your partner learn how to work together to communicate well. Therapy helped our bond strengthen as we realized we are on the same team and need to face life’s challenges together, as life can throw us “doozies.” Individual therapy can also be an option; for instance, if your partner is having a difficult time adjusting to a life with a chronic illness, it can be very helpful for them to have a person to whom they can express their feelings and concerns.
  • Accept help from those who offer it: One of the biggest mistakes my husband and I recognized (too late) was not letting our family and friends know when I was in a flare or in the hospital. I was embarrassed at being sick for many years. We didn’t let these people knowing how badly and desperately we needed help, and they thought we were aloof and “too busy” for them (the complete opposite of the truth). We learned to share our burdens with those who love us and accept their offers of help. I can’t tell you how many of our burdens have been lifted by people who brought us meals, drove me to appointments, dropped off medicine from the pharmacy, or just sat with us when I was too sick to get out of bed. If there are people in your life who are willing to help, be specific and vocal about your needs. It can help lift an enormous amount of stress.
  • Value intimacy: One of the greatest bonds between two people can sometimes get overlooked because of issues with chronic illness. Scheduling intimacy time or taking advantage of the moments you feel OK are crucial. And sex doesn’t always have to be in the cards. It can be a bubble bath with your partner, a massage, or cuddling on the couch and just talking.

Even after 14 years together, my husband and I do not have it all together; sometimes lupus (and a few other chronic illnesses) have brought the stress level in our marriage to a high, and we did not react in a kind or loving manner toward one another. Over time, however, we’ve found a rhythm, and have built a strong, beautiful partnership.

What tools do you think are crucial for a healthy relationship when chronic illness is involved? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Note: Lupus News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Lupus News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to lupus.

Comments

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https://freehappyhalloweenimages2018.com

What a information of un-ambiguity and preserveness of valuable
experience concerning unexpected emotions.

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N avatar

N

I love this, and I love that you seem to be living your best life right now. As far as relationships go, I find most people being intimidated or scared or something. Most recently with COVID someone I was dating (few months, on and off at first, but then we regrouped) and knew for quite a while has personal issues when I had to move my elderly father into my place (for the short term - but what is the short term with COVID and connective tissue disease, etc.?) Long story short, we didn't work out, but I find it hard to wrap my head around how to 1. process (current situation, not that guy - he can deal with his own stuff, but everything else. Docs for a proper diagnosis on any type of connective tissue issue in my experience have been a 4+ year-long thing, which unfortunately is flaring up. And I'm sure many people can relate when I say "every specialist has an opinion.") and 2. How to best navigate new relationships. Personally, I potentially have an average of life expectancy around 10 years if I'm lucky. I feel like all of this is unfair and complicated when it comes to my personal diagnosis, but to bring someone else into it and promise kids (even though deep down I would love that but don't know if it's possible for me)? Would love your opinion on that or any resources you could suggest.

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