When a spinal cord injury happens, it affects more than just the person injured. Oftentimes, family members – and their relationships with each other – go through a change as well.
Bernadette’s son Pat was injured at age 21 in 2006. Bernadette suddenly found herself in a caregiving role in addition to her role as parent. No doubt the stress of the trauma and the readjustment to a new life changed both her relationship with her son and with her husband.
“I think we’re closer.”
Before her son’s injury, Bernadette says their relationship was strained due to a difference in lifestyle choices. But now they “work through a lot of things” and “understand each other” on a different level than before.
Bernadette’s relationship with her spouse was also transformed after their son’s injury. “There was a lot of anger on his part,” says Bernadette of her husband. “I think that he wanted me to choose between Pat and him.” And like any relationship that has survived a drastic life change, it’s often a work in progress. “I think we also communicate on a different level, perhaps a better level now.”
“We’re finding a little more time to spend with each other – and it’s enjoyable time.”
Rebuilding relationships after a spinal cord injury can be challenging, but it’s something that can most certainly be done.