What Happens When the Well Partner Gets Sick?

I recently heard about a couple situation in which one partner had been the designated ill person for many years. She has a degenerative illness which often requires complete rest and occasional hospitalization. She has already outlived doctors' predictions of her life span.

The couple had adjusted well to the needs this illness imposed on their relationship. They took advantage of her well times to socialize, go to movies, and go for long walks. The more symptomatic times meant the well partner did the chores, and they spent their together time reading or sleeping.

Unexpectedly the well partner was diagnosed with breast cancer. They believe they caught it in its early stages and have high hopes for treatment.

However, this new illness has dramatically shifted their equilibrium as a couple. They were used to one person's limitations dictating the flow of roles and responsibilities. This second illness, in the partner who was supposed to go on being the healthy one, has changed the rules.

How can they now prepare meals, shop for essentials, take their child to school, and generate an income while dealing with the double whammy of two illnesses, each bringing its own set of limitations. They are struggling to adjust.

How many of you are part of a dual-illness couple -- where both people have needs for caretaking? How do you manage this challenge?