" This question presents an ethical dilemma beyond my ability to answer", remarks Pat Robertson following the media firestorm created after he told a man that he should feel free to divorce his wife with Alzheimer's. The predictable response came from conservative leaders commenting that this action is sinful. Therapists and others in the medical field focused on the needs of the patient for companionship.
I have had two men friends whose wives had Alzheimer's; both sought to caregive until the end of life. Both are Christians; one organized a spouse network for caregivers like himself largely through his church. I was a constant friend with the other, visiting he and his wife several times a week. I witnessed growth in both mens' lives as they gave themselves 24/7 to serve their wives. I could not conceive of either one divorcing his wife. This is not to say that men should not have a social life or get out to see friends. But the fact is, that if you are commited to caregiving the one you have loved over many years then that love cannot stop at the edge of death. Yes, men have needs and one of our needs is to keep love alive between ourselves and the one who has loved us.
Do you agree? Let me hear from you.
