Can You Care For A Chronically Ill Spouse?

We often take marital vows promising to stay with a husband or wife "through sickness and in health, for better or worse." But when "sickness" and "worse" becomes a long lasting situation, can we handle it? What would happen if your spouse were permanently bedridden or in need of constant medical attention? What if they suffered from a devastating mental illness? What if they lost a limb? Could you handle it? Would you stay or would you jump ship? What about if it was you who needed care, do you think your current spouse has what it takes to stick by you? What does it take to be able to stay with your spouse "in sickness and in health, for better or worse"? How can you tell if your spouse or potential spouse has the loyalty and commitment to weather the storm if you should fall seriously ill for a long period of time?