Posted by Naomi (216.161.75.212) on September 01, 2000 at 15:38:46:
I don't know what to do. My husband has been suffering from cluster headaches for about 6 years now. The last two years he has been suffering chronically. He has not had a break more than 2 consecutive days in 2 years.
Last July he lost his job and he cannot even begin to think he could hold down another job. These devilish attacks keep changing patterns, and are continually increasing in intensity. We have found nothing that works besides the Imitrex injection - which replaces the CH attack with chest pains. His lack of employment and basic ability to live has affected his self esteem and self worth in ways I may never know.
I have been put in a situation where I have been forced to take charge of everything - from kids, pets, work, finances...you name it. The weight of the world is on my shoulders and I can see the guilt in his eyes. I don't want him to feel this way - God knows I do everything I can to be supportive. I'm just so very, very tired. I just want to help him, but I often wonder, can anyone?
I am now beginning to worry about my daughter who is 2 1/2 years old. She is definitely affected by this - to what extent is my true concern. She asked me this morning "what happened to my daddy? will he go to Heaven like Sheba?" (Sheba being her puppy that died a few months ago)
I would like to know how other CH sufferers and families of the sufferers deal with small children? Should I be concerned that this is affecting her emotionally?
I need your advise...please help!