Missy, have you asked your ALSA about respite grants? I know they are given here. I'm very blessed to be in the DC, Virginia and MD chapter, which, I'm told has many wealthy benefactors (across the Bay from me--we are not, on this Eastern Shore side, a well-to-do area). I hope that your ALSA can help you... or the MDA. Or your church. Do folks at your church know your needs, I wonder. I also realize it is not a universal "given"--being a believer and therefore doing the more difficult things. Our culture has become very selfish, I'm afraid. I do hope that for your situation that isn't the case.
Missy, loads of love--
Ann