Ruth, you seem to manage working and taking care of William quite well. :juggle: As long as it doesn't affect your health and William has his caregivers, I agree with your decision. I do feel like I am cut off from the world sometimes but I would not want the additional duties of work. I don't have the energy! If you have a good career, then it pays to keep your benefits and work status. William will adjust and be more independent.

Julie

Ruth:

I think william needs some extracurricular activity which can give him pleasure without lot of efforts like reading book, playing on computer or indoor gardening, something he will enjoy & will keep him busy while you are away at work. I think you working outside is best therapy for you too, or you will get burnt with 24X7 caregiving.Maybe encourage william to have routine for his weekdays so that it keeps him busy. because of my routine I look forward to my exercise days & chores too.

Asha

Ruth: I went back to work to save my sanity. But I will say, you had a great influence on my decision. Struggling with full time and supervisory responsibilities; the anxiety of leaving William alone, albeit for a short time, but still alone; Mary Beth mentioned that to me today. Said most people are not as lucky as Bruce and I in that I could afford to stay home (exactly the leaving him alone for more time issue); managing the home and finances and still primary caregiver to William. I thought long and hard, and yes it was the right decision at the right time for us, but there were many nights I reread your posts just to get the strength and courage to do it.

Personally I think Bruce is the opposite of William-can't wait to see me go-lol!

Cute story from when Britt was a teenager and before she boarded at a private high school. I went to day shift so I could be home at night with my teenager and all that involves. But occasionally would get a call to come in early-especially with bad weather. One morning, 5am, she heard the phone and was waiting for me on the stairs when I got out of the shower-hysterical. "Who is going to iron my shirt. I hate that you work and are on call." (mind you, even at thirteen, one would not trust Britt with an iron-she'd burn down the house). I said, honey, Uncle Bruce will iron your shirt. She howls and says "but he can't do it like you do!"

Today, Bruce could not put his shirt on himself. He is, after all as he reminded me, "crippled!" In trouble if I am here or if I am gone.

As hard as this is, your example from the day I joined here, has proven the right advice for me anyway. Yes, I feel guilty, again the money is good and a bonus, but a part of me has returned and that has only had positive results. Keep on truckin'. We make the best decisions we can.

Best, Debbie