How you ever had a relative or close friend help care for you while you recovered from a serious illness or injury?

If so, what all happened? Who was the person? Was it awkward, rewarding, or matter-of-fact?

Yes, I have. A few years ago I fainted and had to stay in the hospital for two days. My close male friend came with me and stayed by my side. During that time he not only kept me company but also helped with my personal care, because I was too weak to manage everything on my own. It felt a little strange at first to rely on someone else like that, but I was very grateful for his support.

I had an emergency appendectomy not too long ago. My abs healed up well but I did have another minor complication resulting in a white blood cell imbalance. My post operative complications were diminished appetite and overall fatigue.

My GF is a Flight Attendant which offers her some flexibility with her work schedule so for about a month she worked a minimum schedule and stayed with me to help me along.

I mentioned in a previous post during times when I feel weak or vulnerable I get a haunting visit by that emotionally wounded child I once was. This was an ideal time for him to stop by. I am pleased to report I think he lost my address.

My post operative plan: Recovery through rest. Very limited physical activity. No running, no bodyweight exercises. Walking the dog was it. (She is very playful so saying no to some rough and tumble wasn't easy but she is very intuitive. She knew I was not my usual self and became a bit more clingy). No more than 6 hours of work per day. Check my vitals 3x daily. (BP, pulse, temp and respiration). Check my weight once per week, get some nourishment in my system and stay hydrated.

My GF was really helpful. When she was traveling I would get a text from her reminding about my self care obligations. "How are you vitals? How much time did you spend working today?. Did you eat some of that shrimp? She joked a little about being overbearing saying she didn't want us ending up being like an elderly couple at Denny's waiting for the early bird special. I feel fortunate she cares about me so much.

The overall experience was rewarding. This temporary crisis strengthened our relationship and prepared us for the next challenge. I am starting my new job in DC Oct 6 but her transfer from NYC to Dulles Airport doesn't go through until January 5th. She is going to trade for schedules out of Dulles when she can.

My son, my sister, and a friend of the family stayed with after surgery. My son stayed overnight with me in the hospital.

Yes, my sister stayed out here a couple nights after my reconstructive major Rotator Cuff surgery. She was a God send, taking me there and bringing me home and helping me out.

Yes. Wife and daughter. I was/am going through cancer treatments. Sometimes I was too weak to take care of myself and my mind was too scrambled to be relied on. I am thankful to have them looking after me. Friends and family called often checking on me and offering encouragement. There were people being treated at the same time as me that didn't have the help I did. The thought of that is sad and frightening.