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Angel on Earth
Brad Baker
By Lyn Mettler
For Brad, helping Holly is just as much a part of his day as eating breakfast or going to work. From helping her bathe and emptying her catheter to stretching her legs and cooking meals, he assists with almost all aspects of her life.
Brad owns his own business in Dallas, Texas, so he is able to be more flexible in coming home when he's needed or in taking time off for doctor's appointments. But because he works a full-time job – and needs an occasional break – he does have people who come in while he's at work to help Holly with lunch, bathing and even driving her places.
"I have a good church that helps out a lot," he says. "Family is always there to encourage." Brad's 21-year-old son and two 18-year-old daughters, who, for now, still live at home, are also able to help their mom around the house.
And just like everyone, there are good days and bad days. "There's been some pretty rough days, and if I put them back to back it would be pretty tough," says Brad. "I have a short-term memory, which I've been blessed with. If it was a terrible day yesterday, I just think about what's going to happen today or tomorrow."
Brad tries to balance those rough times with plenty of time for fun. The couple makes a date every week to see a movie, even if there's nothing they particularly want to see. "It's just a way to get away, even though the movies aren't always that good," he says.
