My Mom Passed

I'm sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

So sorry and sad for you. I hope the mass will bring solace and comfort.

Yes, I think many people wait until the family has gone before they pass. My grandmother did that. It was almost as though she needed to be alone to let go.

My mother also passed away last month. We had a different experience. I broke my ankle the very day I was headed over to spend with my Mom. She had just had a birthday, and I was there all weekend to celebrate with her. She had one good day, and one bad. I went to work then made arrangements to be gone after the facility called and said Mom had taken a turn for the worse. I called hospice, and they were already on it. Then I broke my ankle! I was in the ER one day and meeting with a surgeon the next. I just knew Mom was going to pass without me, but she held on. My daughter drove me because I was half delirious on pain medication. I called my sister, and she said her goodbyes over the phone. I sat with Mom for about four hours before she passed away. The hospice nurse said Mom might have held on until I could be there. She also told me that many times, loved ones wait until their family leaves. My dad was that way. My mother and I stayed with him for two days after his stroke, then when I took her home to get some rest, the hospital called that he was gone. I've learned that either way it happens, peace comes no matter what. I don't believe the dying are ever really alone. There are many ways to say goodbye. Some folks say their goodbyes at the funeral or even some time after that. Every way is meaningful. I wish you peace throughout the holidays. I hope we all can find some solace in cherished memories.