I am a care-giver for my husband, who has a rare disorder that progresses quickly. I am also a part time carer for my mother - whe has alzhiemer's, but she lives in an assisted living apartment close by me.

I don't do enough to take care of myself. But I do make sure that I have a few hours to myself each week to do as I please. I am taking Fridays off from work this year to run errands and have a few hours to myself. Today, after a doctor visit with Mother, I had lunch with a girlfriend and played with her cats.

The biggest thing I do for myself, is spend money to pay for care givers to take care of Dennis, allowing myself to maintain my job. On Thanksgiving, I will pay one of the gals to come and get Dennis ready so I can cook a good Thanksgiving meal.

It has been hard for me to ask for help, but I have learned that by sharing my story openly, help comes to me in many forms. I get tons of emotional support from friends far and near - many from here.