Sadly, we're nearing the end

GothicGremlin

I can't even believe I'm typing this, but it's true.

The hospice nurse called me yesterday to tell me that Peggy's transitioning. And she is. Her heart rate is 140, even as she's just laying there in bed and her pulse is weak. Yesterday she was cool to the touch, and today she was so hot that we ended up putting on the AC. Meanwhile, outside it's barely 50 degrees. Most of the time when her eyes are open (which is rare), she's not focusing on anything. She's on oxygen, atropine (to help with the rattling), and they've just started morphine. She hasn't had anything (puréed food or liquids) for two days now.

Some of the closer staff caregivers are starting to say their good-byes to Peggy. One of the staff caregivers was beside herself today. Then this afternoon a troop of med techs came in to tell me how much they'll miss Peggy, and they shared some stories with me.

Clearly these people really care, and that makes me happy, even at this sad time. Peggy is well-loved, and her level of care reflects that.

I don't know how long she has. The hospice nurse told me today that it could be as long as two weeks, but I could tell that this is a theoretical two weeks. I think we're really looking at a few days.

BassetHoundAnn

I'm so sorry, Gothic. Your and Peggy's relationship has been beautiful and amazing. You've both been The Best Sisters Ever to each other. Peggy has been so lucky to have you watching over her. Know that you both are in my heart and my prayers. Hugs to you both.

M1

Same here. Travelers Rest is nigh for both of you, and you have walked this difficult path with such grace and courage.

Jgirl57

Oh GG, I know this is difficult and also peaceful at the same time. I feel we have all come to know and love you both . Big hugs to you and dear sis.

JeriLynn66

Prayers for peace for you, and for dear Peggy. Sending hugs.

Jeanne C.

Strength, ease, and peace to you both. Truly, my heart aches for you.

Quilting brings calm

I’m so sorry. Watching a family member decline over a period of days is so hard. The staff at my step-dad’s AL were so caring and they had a very hard time with it too.

forbarbara

Thank you GG for sharing your wonderful brave sister with us.

harshedbuzz

@GothicGremlin

I wish you calm and strength to you and the rest of Peggy's circle as the end approaches.

Your care of Peggy has been a master class in creating a collaborative care team ensuring the best care possible. Thank you for sharing that.

HB

SusanB-dil

GG - been thinking of you. I still think you are best sister ever... 'this' is so hard.

TrumpetSwan

I am so sorry. Prayers to you and your sister.

From me as an outsider, I have admired your relationship and the grace with which you seem to have handled the journey.

dancsfo

@GothicGremlin You have cared for your sister so much, she is lucky to have had your loving care.

housefinch

Sending you comfort and strength in the days ahead.

GothicGremlin

Thank you, all of you. I'm going to need all the strength I can get over the next couple of days.

@TrumpetSwan Thank you, but you know what? You aren't an "outsider" at all - we're all on similar paths, doing our best for our loved ones, even when the going gets really tough. I love that we're all here for each other, it makes the road just a little bit easier.

On my way to memory care .....

Emily 123

I'm sorry GG. Am praying for you all, and wishing that Peggy feels peaceful. Be kind to yourself and take breaks when you need to. I know you'll be playing some of Peggy's favorite tunes. She knows she's loved.

ladyzetta

Dear GG, Peggy is so blessed to have you as her sister. Peace be with the both of you. Big Hugs to you and Peggy. ((((((GG & Peggy)))))))) Love Zetta

Phoenix1966

I’m so sorry to hear that this leg of your sister’s journey is almost over. But try and take some measure of comfort that she is surrounded by love and I firmly believe she can feel that. And that is as much because of you and how you’ve cared for her as it is about the person she is.

ButterflyWings

Oh (((GG))) - Words are not sufficient. Prayers for strength, peaceful moments and closure for you, precious Peggy, and all who love her. She is having her way now, as she said - she did not want to do "that" anymore. So, may this transition be as gentle on you both as possible despite the sadness.

Blessings to you for being who you are, and loving her through all this - the before, the now, and the next. You both are amazing and I am so glad for the community you helped her settle into. May they lift you up as well. We are here for you.

moorefay

As someone new to this forum and reading this discussion about GG and Peggy, I am guessing that Peggy is GG sister. I also have joined this group as my sister, Cher, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and I am absolutely heartbroken.It seems almost unreal to me,she is declining everyday and becoming a stranger to me. It is very hard on our family and it gets very difficult among us as we all get frustrated with her and each other. My sister has emotional meltdowns daily crying and hysterical and it’s breaks my heart because I don’t know what to do, Her husband refuses to put her on any medication to stabilize her moods and it becomes a fighting battle. I am at my wits end

SusanB-dil

Hi moorefay - welcome to 'here'. Yes, Peggy was GG's sister. I think we will all miss Peggy. There was a sweet and special bond there.

As for your concerns, your sister's husband most likely has a bigger say in the matter for her well-being. He may be afraid of all that is happening, or that he doesn't want her 'drugged', or any number of reasons... but you would probably get more answers just starting a new thread with those concerns and questions.