Long Term Relationship

Chronic illness is a forced, unexpected, life-long commitment/long term relationship to a stranger.

Suddenly ALL of your needs and functions have to be altered to fit with what your partner needs. You will go as far as to change your diet, activities, and even schedule your bathroom breaks - all determined by this new partner who you have never even heard of before.
It's like signing a relationship agreement with Sheldon Cooper... with the clause at the end that states:
"The partner reserves the right to change this agreement in part or in its entirety without the consent, consultation, or knowledge of the signer."

Not only that, but every relationship has 'stages' right? Sometimes your spouse and you decide to try a new diet for health purposes or to feel better. Sometimes you commit to a new gym routine or activity. Sometimes you pledge to do something special now and then, even if you're having issues, to just pretend that everything is fine and there are no problems in the relationship.
Sometimes, if you are stark-raving mad at each other but have a function coming up, you totally put on a face and pretend that you are more in love than ever.
You also pretend to be okay with decisions made by your partner that affect you in every way.

So what if your partner dictates where and how you live?
So what if your partner causes you physical and mental pain on a daily basis?
You are in this for life - and you need to learn how to cope with everything. You have no choice but to stay in this relationship, no matter how actually toxic it is. You have no choice. This is a lifetime commitment that you did not choose.

Welcome to your new relationship. You now have to work together to find the best balance in your life.