The windows are all open now

60 falcon

I've said before that when I've been reading all the posts here over the years, they've been been like looking thru windows to the future.  The windows don't really open for me until I've actually experienced what was talked about.  I've gone thru one window into the next, and on and on from one stage of this disease to the next stage.

This morning my wife and I were looking thru the window into stage eight, until that widow opened and Pat flew through. She left me standing in stage eight today.  Now I understand and can relate to so many more of you.

Pat taught me so much in our 31 years.  She was teaching me up until she flew away.  She made me who I am today.  It's no joke that this EOAD experience was pure hell at times and I was clearly burnt out on caregiving.  But, this experience showed me that I love her more than I ever could have thought possible.  Our family is hurting and I feel broken.  I sure do miss Pat.  She was 62 and this picture was from a couple of months ago; things changed fast.

Steve.

saltom

What a beautiful way of expressing your feelings.  Your and Pat were lucky to have had each other.  Our younger daughter, a few years younger than your Pat, has been diagnosed with EOAD.  Her husband sounds a lot like you and I grieve for both of them. Your post has been a great help to me.  I'm so sorry you are feeling broken and hope your memories will help you in your grief and healing.

Mint

Steve I’m very sorry for your loss of Pat.

John1965

I’m sorry for your loss. Your post was both elegant and poignant. You have my sympathy.

M1

I am shocked 60F, this was unexpected was it not? And sorry and relieved for you at the same time. That is a wonderful picture.

your love for her and dedication came through in every post.  Peace to you.

June45

(((Steve)))

Ed1937

Steve, I'm so sorry. Nothing prepares you for this, or even comes close. Sending strength for the coming days.

Joydean

Steve so sorry for your loss. The picture shows a beautiful couple. Prayers for you and your family. Your expression of this experience is beautifully written. Blessing and strength for you and your family.

BethL

I'm so sorry for your loss. Lovely photo, lovely lady.

Jeff86

Heartfelt condolences to you, Steve, on your Pat’s passing.  You have been a warrior caregiver.  I hope the coming weeks and months will bring you peace.

JoseyWales

What a beautiful way of sharing your loss. Thank you for the picture, you look like a fantastic couple. She looks so good in that picture.

 My thoughts and prayers are with you as you move through this new stage. 

Hoot619

Losing your Loved One is hard, I appreciate the way you told us.   May you find solace in our replies, I will keep you in my prayers.

Last Dance

       Steve, so sorry for your lose.                                                                                                   I almost didn’t read your post today, I never thought of the windows being closed then open so that our Love Ones could leave this cruel disease behind. May you find some peace from the fresh air that now will come in, through the open window. May your broken heart, and mind remember the good times and forget the bad times, may you find solace knowing that even in your struggles to take care of her that you were her guardian angel, and made her journey with This cruel disease much easier to bear. God’s Blessings to you and your family. Richard  

jmlarue

We think we are prepared. Our brain might be, but our heart never is. Sending sincerest condolences.

ImMaggieMae

I am so sorry for the loss of your dear wife. Your announcement was beautiful and loving. Thank you for posting the photo as well. She was a beautiful woman. Please take care of yourself at this difficult time.

toolbeltexpert

Steve I am sorry for your loss. Your windows are all open. May it be calm and peaceful now. We'll done good and faithful caregiver.

jfkoc

much love sent...........

eaglemom

You've expressed yourself beautifully. Thank you for sharing the picture.

eagle

Gig Harbor

Steve I am so sorry for your loss. You expressed your thoughts beautifully in a way I have never thought of.

dayn2nite2

I'm so sorry for your loss.  The picture of the two of you is wonderful.  Please get some rest and take care of yourself.  We are here if you need us.

A. Marie

60, I'm so very sorry for your loss. But you described the process beautifully. And I hope you'll think of your wife as flying through that last open window to freedom.

Jo C.

May her spirit have flown to absolute peace and absolute joy.   Your writing is lovely as is the photograph.  I send heartfelt condolences to you on your deep loss.     You have gone the distance and  thensome and have been her ever faithful love, husband and best friend and the carer of her person through the difficult times, always her advocate.

May you find some comfort in knowing how much you gave of yourself and that you made a huge difference for your beloved wife.  Your vows have been honored beyond expectations.

J.

Buggsroo

I am so sorry Steve, I loved the analogy I am so glad she got to fly.

David J

Sending my condolences, Steve. Your post is a good way to look at the inevitable emding of all this.

abc123

Dear Steve, I am very sorry for your loss of Pat. I’ve learned through the years that nothing can really prepare us for the loss of a loved one, especially our spouse, our life partner. I’ve learned a lot from you and I’ve always appreciated you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pat6177

Steve, my sincere condolences for your loss. I love the window analogy and the picture of the 2 of you. Be gentle with yourself over the upcoming weeks.

Joe C.

Steve, My sincere condolences on the loss of your wife. May you find some peace in the days ahead.

Just Bill

When she flew out that window so did you. She went on one adventure and you on another. Stay positive, stay focused enjoy the gift of life to the fullest right to the end. You will see her again then. Until then she is alive in your memories. Imagine she is watching over you so you don't do anything dumb and you don't dwell on sadness too much. Fare well on your new adventure.