Venting

[SCFinFan]

Maybe this is the wrong place to post this, but I need a little catharsis.

None of you know that I live with and take care of my grandmother. She is 92 (today) and I am 22. It is a exceedingly difficult arrangement to live with. My grandmother almost never gets a full night of sleep, and therefore will usually get up in the middle of the night (oh, say about 2-3 AM) and turn on the TV at full volume.

She also has forgetful habits, like leaving dirty underwear on the sink where I brush my teeth. She also shits her pants quite often too. I am the one who cleans up after her.

My life has been like this for 3 years now... it killed me in college, as I could hardly ever go out (she needs a person with her at night) and because I could never travel without having to get one of my parents or relatives to fill in for me.

I don't want y'all to think I'm some sort of whiny bitch who is ungrateful for a good life (and my life really is good, as I live rent-free near a beautiful beach in South Carolina), but man I really needed to vent. Recently, she fell down and cut her head open while I was away rebuilding parts of New Orleans. Ever sinece I got back, she's been getting weaker and  grumpier and harder to handle. It's really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, really, taxing my nerves.

Thanks for reading.

[TonyB0D]

its great and admirable that you're taking care of her, but honestly, at 22 years old, it shouldn't be your responsibility.  was she the one that raised you?  if so, then i can see the point, but if not, isn't there some sort of other arrangement that can be made?

[GUATARICCAN]

You're a good man for having that kind of patience. I don't think I could handle it. But god bless you for caring for granny.

[Sunstroke]

Like the others, I'll applaud your kindness...and marvel at your intestinal fortitude<g>. I don't think I could do this sort of thing...especially if I was 22 and wanted to be out having a social life.

Good luck with your grandmother...and happy 92nd b-day to her!

[Brian Fein]

I echo the sentiments of the others.  You're doing a good thing, something alot of people wouldn't even consider.  Your unselfishness shows the type of person you are, and I admire that.

Be strong...  You're doing the right thing.

[jtex316]

SCFinFan 4 Prez!

[Phishfan]

I have to stand up and applaud you. I know it is tough, but at least take pride that you are doing the right thing.

[YoFuggedaboutit]

I'm not sure if she raised you or if you're doing this out of the kindness of your heart, but I have to admire someone who does this.  Also, look at it this way.... you are providing for your grandmother, who would otherwise be in some run-of-the-mill nursing home with suspect care. 

Not to mention that when she does pass on, that beautiful place by the beach is all yours!!!

[DolFan619]

     You're better man for taking care of your grandmother.  Most men your age would probably put their grandparents in nursing homes, if they were put in your situation.  Stay strong, stay the course. 

[SCFinFan]

Thanks for the support guys. It  made me feel better to write down what was going on with me; it really warms my heart that y'all have written such nice things to me.

As for some of the questions...

No, she didn't raise me, but frankly, I have to do this. My grandfather died a few years ago, and I had a cousin that came down to help out. She didn't work out as she pretty much decided that the responsibility was too much for her. Then my mom moved in... man, that was difficult for my family. My grandmother has 7 kids, my mom being just one of them, but no one lives as close as my family. So, my mom's basic day was this: wake up, feed my gm, work, come home, feed my gm, bathe her, do work at home, sleep. All that, plus it was killing her relationship with my dad. I had to do... something. Mom still comes over quite a bit, but she doesn't live here, and that's something.

As for me getting this house, well, as much as I'd like to be a beach bum on Sullivan's Island forever, it ain't gonna happen. This isn't my grandmother's house, it's my uncle's: my grandmother just happens to live here. So, when she goes, if I'm still here, I'll probably get kicked out too. The house will then be demolished, to make room for a newer, larger house.

Once again, thanks for all the comments. I appreciate it guys. It's difficult, but I feel selfish for even bitching about it. Thanks again.

[Dave Gray]

It must be a tough road right now, but when she's gone, and you can look back on your life, I imagine that you'll feel better about her and yourself.

...plus, chicks dig a sensitive man.

[Denver_Bronco]

It must be a tough road right now, but when she's gone, and you can look back on your life, I imagine that you'll feel better about her and yourself.

...plus, chicks dig a sensitive man.

We are all sensitive until we hit the skins, even me.....

[Jeno]

My hat goes off to you!

I've got a Grandmother that lives with us too, but we all share in taking care of her. What you do is a combination of 3 peoples work in my family.

Well done, she appreciates it believe me.

You'll get your dues in Heaven! Or Angelina Jolie will rape you some night or somethin totally cool like that!!