As a husband, committing to my wife in body, mind, and spirit is my greatest responsibility and joy. In the early years we did all the things young couples do together; we partied, we traveled, we had a lot of sex, we planned for the future. But gradually something entered our marriage uninvited - a chronic pain condition that changed the formula for our great marriage.
Now my wife sees a pain management specialist, has undergone numerous surgeries, and her chronic pain significantly limits our activities. However, it has brought us closer, tested our commitment to our wedding vows, and by communicating openly we have been able to write a new formula for what brings us joy and fulfillment.
That is the story I want to share with the world; how, despite an unexpected chronic illness which could easily have broken our relationship (as it has done for so many others), it made us more honest and trusting and open with each other. And while I'd give anything to have her pain gone forever, I find some comfort in how it has made us a better couple.