What a great way to be pro-active!
When my husband was first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I had so much to learn and I felt so guilty that I hadn't been involved before diabetes affected my family.
It took some time for me to calm down enough to realize that God brings things into our focus as the need arises. Just as your husband is testifying to. I agree with him.
When we get done being stunned by what is happening to us enough to reach out and do something for someone else, then a bit of heaven happens on earth, and our burden is not as harsh.
It is the way God is glorified and revealed to a hurting world.