What Chris Gained From the Relationship

Stories about caregiving often focus entirely on what the caregiver gives.

But relationships are rarely one-directional.

Chris had something to gain as well.

Norma had become part of his life.

She offered companionship.

She represented a connection across generations.

She became someone he could care about and learn from.

She was not simply receiving.

She was also a person who had enriched his life long before she became ill.

That may have made his decision to care for her feel less like a burden and more like an extension of their existing relationship.

A Grandmother by Choice

The phrase “grandmother by choice” may describe Norma especially well.

Family can be inherited.

But some relationships are chosen.

Chris chose Norma.

Norma chose Chris.

They gave each other names that reflected what they meant to one another.

And when circumstances became difficult, that emotional bond turned into real-life commitment.