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Thank You As My Mother's Journey Comes to an End

Hello all,

I'm an only child and I've been caring for my 89 year old mother with VD, emphysema, and myelodyplastic disorder since 2014, first in her home with paid caregivers then in MC, and now in SNF since November 2019.

I've done so much learning and lurking on this forum, and the past few days of sitting with my mom and watching her decline, I have been so incredibly grateful for posts where others have shared their experiences of this time. I've been learning from all of you and empathizing with all of you since 2014, but as I sit her in my mother's room alone with her, your words and wisdom are giving me such strength and comfort. I don't think I could stay here, alone, without you. 

My mother's 85 year old younger sister, the last of the seven siblings, is having a very difficult time with this and she and her daughter, my cousin, are not able to be here with me. And there's no other family who would be, so it's just me. 

I've often been too exhausted by working and caregiving to share or reply here, but now there is nothing left for me to do for my mother except be present and let her know she is loved, and that she can go, I will be all right. 

So I just want to say thank you, from the absolute bottom of my heart, for all of the wisdom and love, and laughs, and knowledge, and support to you all have provided to me and so many others on this journey. I hope to be able to pay it forward. 

Comments

  • M1
    M1 Member Posts: 6,788
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    Peace to you. What a sweet message, my thoughts and prayers go with you
  • Battlebuddy
    Battlebuddy Member Posts: 331
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    Member

       I’m so sorry you are in this spot, but glad this board has been a source of strength and comfort. I’m sure you are just exhausted at this point. Although you are physically alone we are all with you in spirit. 

        I pray for peace and strength for you. Just a little while longer now. You can make it 

  • Joydean
    Joydean Member Posts: 1,500
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    My thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray God will place His arms around you and give you peace in your heart.
  • Katefrehe
    Katefrehe Member Posts: 2
    First Comment First Anniversary
    Member
    We would love any advice on bathing tips, our mom was diagnosed this past May, she is 87 and has always been so meticulous about herself etc.  If we suggest shower etc. she sometimes becomes angry and will not want to.
  • MimiMinder
    MimiMinder Member Posts: 44
    Fifth Anniversary 10 Comments
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    Please know you are being thought of by so many on this forum. Wishing you peace in the coming days ~ Diana
  • MimiMinder
    MimiMinder Member Posts: 44
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    Member
    Katefrehe wrote:
    We would love any advice on bathing tips, our mom was diagnosed this past May, she is 87 and has always been so meticulous about herself etc.  If we suggest shower etc. she sometimes becomes angry and will not want to.
    Kate - you will want to start a new topic so people see your post. Go to "Add Topic" and write your issue so others will see it!
  • Mint
    Mint Member Posts: 2,753
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    You are in my thoughts and prayers.  You are always welcome here and sounds like you would have a lot to share.

    Take care

  • SusanB-dil
    SusanB-dil Member Posts: 1,150
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    Turnergirl -

    What a beautiful message. thank you for posting that. 

    I've also been learning more, and seeing the support that is here.  and Yes, Thankful!! This being sort of my second-time 'round, as we didn't have anything like forums nor support groups when we went through this with my grandmother in the 1970's.  Now dealing with this in both Mom and Mom-in-law, we have more support to help us carry on and carry through. Much has been learned since the 70's, and maybe, just maybe, hopefully sooner than later... if found early, perhaps... a cure... ?  ~sigh~

    I agree with the others - you may be physically 'alone' with your mom, but you are not 'alone'!

    Peace and thoughts and prayers to you.

  • harshedbuzz
    harshedbuzz Member Posts: 4,485
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    Thank you for taking the time to check in. I wish you and your dear mom peace as your journey together ends.
  • wyoming daughter
    wyoming daughter Member Posts: 57
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    Member
    What a sweet message, peace to you and your mom as you share these last moments.
  • mommyandme (m&m)
    mommyandme (m&m) Member Posts: 1,468
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    In your quiet moment you’ve so eloquently shared your life with us, thank you.  

    You are both so fortunate to have each other.  You’re both dementia warriors. 

    I’m sorry this difficult journey, may peace and comfort embrace you.  

  • Care__
    Care__ Member Posts: 8
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    Member
    Thank you for this beautiful post that brought tears to my eyes. I will be thinking of you and your mother.
  • TessC
    TessC Member Posts: 53
    Ninth Anniversary 10 Comments
    Member

    So very sorry that your mother's and your mutual journey has come to this end point. Soon you will be left with the void many of us have in our heart, but I hope you will continue to feel your mother's love, gratitude and pride as you move forward with your life. Come see us on the forum for those who have lost someone if you ever need support. We care!

    Prayers and blessings for your dear mother and to you.

Commonly Used Abbreviations


DH = Dear Husband
DW= Dear Wife, Darling Wife
LO = Loved One
ES = Early Stage
EO = Early Onset
FTD = Frontotemporal Dementia
VD = Vascular Dementia
MC = Memory Care
AL = Assisted Living
POA = Power of Attorney
Read more