So far, so good

So far, hubby has not contracted my cold. We are being so careful. Handwashing fastidiously, cleaning bathroom sinks, washing towels, scrubbing countertops vigourously - all to avoid spreading this cold virus. Ask any COPD'er and they will tell you - a cold could be deadly.

I wear a mask when preparing food, hubby serves himself. He makes his own coffee and tea. We are sleeping apart.

I feel like an outcast! But - this is totally necessary. It will be well worth it to spare him the miseries of a simple cold. Simple for me, but with his weakened immune system, could lead to pneumonia and months of convalescing - or not.

So, we take our precautions to the extreme.

So far, so good.
I am impressed - maybe he's already had this virus and made antibodies. Maybe he has a hidden well of strength - enough to fight this off.

But something strange is happening. I have had to loosen my grip. Have had to back off a little in my "caring". My focus is still Caregiver, but I've had to look after myself and my cold. After scrubbing the kitchen, I take a rest, read a book - no matter what hubby is doing.

In other words, I am not hovering over Hubby, making his coffee, turning down his O2 when he goes to sleep, or even helping him change his tanks. He is perfectly capable of doing this on his own - yet I've always been right there helping out. And waiting to look after my needs when he is sleeping.

Was I doing too much?
Is this better for both of us?

As time goes on, we will find out.
But as long as he continues to stay "cold-free", I am happy.