Hi, Just trying to stir up some discussion about the aspect of giving a hug or showing affection. I've had this disease for six years now, I have lost the use of both my legs, and both my arms. There is one thing, I dearly miss, and that is to be able to reach out and give my wife a hug. We have been married 25 years , and I realize now that my wife is not a real huggy person. I used to be the one that was always reaching out and embracing her, and now that I'm unable to. I keep wanting to ask her to give me a hug and help me wrap my arms around her. She very much resents this. She is doing so much for me throughout the day, that to ask for a hug at the end of the day is the last straw. She wants to be left alone by the time she comes to bed. I have so many demands throughout the day that she has to do for me, that this is one aspect that she can control and say no to. I used to always sleep cuddled up to her back, with my arm around her. Now while I lay on my back, I so much wish I could put my arm out around her and feel are close to me again. But she had made it clear to me that it takes a lot of effort on her part and refuses to reach out to me herself. Even a hug in my chair, or a kiss, would mean so much. To me,it makes you feel appreciated and valued. Is my wife burned out? With nothing left to give? I have thought so, and so we've incorporated more caregivers to help with the load. I now have a gentleman, who helps me out through the week and every other weekend. Some days, my wife does not have to touch me at all. She has since this last year, taken on a job outside the house. This allows her to get out, meet other people, and do something else. But still physical affection is foreign to us,which I find sad. I have resolved that I will show my affection with the smiles I give, and the thankfulness and admiration I can display and verbalize. And we are very happy together, so long as I can not bring up the subject of phyisical intimacy. I am sure there are others who can identify. The trick in this disease is acceptance of things you can't do anymore and focusing on what you can.