cancer olympics

ever since i became a "permanent caretaker," i've received a number of privileges i'd rather not have.
i get airline discounts because of disability and illness.
i dont get charged for changing my flights 100 times.
i get speeded through the airport because i'm pushing someone in a wheelchair.
i became part of the intimate crew of doctors and nurses that give palliative care to my mother.
i became the person legally responsible for the healthcare (and lack thereof) my mom receives.
i've been nicknamed "cristina the magician" by the same nurses that leave me to bathe, feed and counsel my mom.

i think the very worst of the "privileges" i have had the pleasure to receive is that now i join the motley crue of other caregivers in this cancer center, and we all compete for who has it worse.
here's what i've gathered so far:
have a mom who's sick trumps having a grandparent who's sick, particularly if you are under 30.
having an aunt or uncle or cousin or friend who's ill means nothing at all.
having a son or daughter who is sick can only be beaten by those who are sick themselves.

frankly, i wish there was another competition in which i can come in second place. like, oh, i dont know, a spelling bee. this isn't the success i planned for.