My wife’s message about my Meniere’s disease

Recently one of my readers asked me how my wife deals with my Meniere’s Disease. My wife, Melissa, wrote the following reply.


My name is Melissa Stillwagon and I am David Stillwagon's wife whom you know has Meniere's disease. During one particular episode when David was so incredibly sick he wanted to give up and quit. I remember telling him that quitting was simply not an option and that together we were going to fight this horrible affliction. I said that if one particular treatment was not successful, or a certain doctor not helpful we would seek out another treatment option or another doctor until we found the right one or a particular drug or combination of drugs that would help alleviate the symptoms he was experiencing. I reminded him to of our young son and how much he loved his Dad and always wanted him to be here to be a part of his life, and for this reason above all others we must keep pressing on and try to remain positive.

As a spouse of a Meniere's patient I understand the sheer frustration you experience. I know what an emotional rollercoaster ride it is not knowing when the next attack might strike or when I will receive that dreaded call that he is sick or in the process of being transported to the hospital. The fear is always present and when he does get sick there is that overwhelming helplessness that engulfs you because you know there is nothing that you can do but stand by and wait until the attack subsides or he receives medical attention and is subsequently stabilized. I remind Dave to try hard to focus on the positive things in his life and look to the future in hopes that one day there will be a cure or at the very least an effective drug to minimize the severity of the disease.
I hope this helps.

My wife’s support has meant everything to me through this difficult time.