Dear lovely gigi
Whatever decision you make, it will be the right one. You need to think of your own needs as well as Eric's.
So many times, I broke down in the kitchen, crying to myself that I couldn't carry on the way things were, and each time I carried on - until the last time, when I realised that, not only could I not carry on like that, but deep down, I didn't want to.
It's an awful realisation, but there is only so much each of us can take while dealing with this terrible diease. Some will take more than others, but everyone has their breaking point - and no matter where that happens during the course of the dementia, when the carer reaches that point, they have done all they can, done all their inner reserves are capable of doing. And that is a truly remarkable thing to do.
Gigi, think of all the things you have coped with, all the situations you've dealt with - you should be proud of everything that you have achieved, because it's no mean feat.
And now it's time for someone else to take on the task of caring for Eric, to give you a chance to address your needs, because you and your needs are every bit as important as Eric and his needs.
Be proud of what you've done, gigi, and remember: whatever decision you make, it's the right one. Listen to your instincts.
Love
Christine
xxx