I have been happily married to my husband Bob for 32 years. I married him when I was 17, and he has been my best friend since I was 16.

Bob was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s about 6 years ago, when he was 54. I was 43; our son was 10. As the disease progresses, we try to use a lot of humor, and we hug a lot.

God only challenges those he feels can handle it, so that they can grow stronger in his service. He has a plan. I try to remember that as Bob approaches his 60th birthday and isn’t even aware of it.