This journey is teaching me to adapt. Open-ended questions like, “What sounds good for lunch?” don’t work anymore. Now, I offer choices: “Do you feel like a sandwich or soup?” These small changes make communication easier for both of us.

But more than that, I’m learning to meet Doug where he is, right now, in this moment. Wishing for the Doug of the past doesn’t help either of us. Instead, I focus on accepting the disease that has changed who he is today.

This isn’t always easy. There’s denial to work through, grief to process, and patience to cultivate. Some days are harder than others, but I’m finding my way. By letting go of expectations and leaning into the love we’ve built, I can be a better wife and care partner.

Doug gave me so much—years of unwavering love and support, the space to grow, and the patience to become the woman I am toda. Now, it’s my turn to give that back to him. With every small adjustment, I remind myself that this is what love looks like: meeting him where he is, walking this path together, and cherishing the moments we still share.