My mom is pretty sick.

[Medusa]

Richard, when my mom had her first heart attack, I had two sisters living near her, one just a few doors down, the other approximately 15 minutes away, all in PA. I lived in OH, 3 hours away, but guess who was put "in charge" to handle things and take care of her when she came home from hospital? The task always falls to the one most capable. As you say, you've been through the wars and you'll know what to do, how to do it and you'll get it done. And we all will be right there beside you in spirit every step of the way. Above all else, love your mom (I know I don't have to tell you that) and love yourself, too. Caregivers need love even more sometimes. Turn to us for support; we're here and we can take it. Keep the faythe, bud.

[RICHARD]

Mom has had chemo and the are trying to keep her as comfortable as possible.

LOL, all this time you thought I was a Mama's boy!

I was able to talk to my big sis tonite and am hoping that she will be able to help me carry the load. After Dad passed in '01 the family kinda sailed apart. It's not the optimum situation to bring everyone back 'together' but we will make it thru.

Before I go on I want to say that my mom got a HUGE KICK out of the Xmas Card exchange. I'd let her open the cards (But, they aren't addressed to me!), and she loved every single one.


She's on some pain meds and altho her eyesight is better than it was before- she's also diabetic- I'll print out your well wishes and pass them on!


The paperwork things are being taken care of, I have some calls to make to her health plan and other concerns.

-------

I have moments of 'beating myself up' over what has happened but you can be assured that with your warm wishes, things will work out for the best.

Only god knows and he's not telling.


The last year has been a real test of who I am. It's been tough, but what doesn't kill you, makes you think you can live forever....I think!?!

Thanks to everyone, again, you are all appreciated more than you know.


P.S. I thought about taking the Edster on a 'road trip'....I have to see what my insurance will cover!

[K9karen]

Richard, I'm so sorry to read about your mom.
*Sigh* All the women on my mom's side sound exactly like your mom and most of their illnesses could have been less dramatic if they practiced what they preached.

I got the brunt of caring for my parents and, now, a 90 year old aunt in a nursing home and her 95 y.o hubby who lives alone. But that's OK. You'll have no regrets. I like to say I'm the "good kid"

My prayers are with you.

[jennielynn1970]

I'm so sorry to hear about your mom, Richard. I hope the chemo won't be too hard on her, and that she'll be ok.

It would be really cool if you could take Ed to see her. I think a lot of long term care facilities do allow animals because they are such a boost to the spirits.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I hope mom will rebound and get better.

[ChrisH]

Oh, Richard, I am so sorry to hear your Mum is so ill. Prayers and positive thoughts on the way for you both.

[Barbara]

Richard I think what Phred said about the "Medical Power of Attorney" is very true. We had my mom sign one when she became so ill and we were very happy to have it later.
Plus: unfortunately it is normal that you experience the most conflict with your closest relatives when something like that happens. Try to play it as cool as possible. Don't waste energy on it- you'll need it for you and your mom.

[chocolatepuppy]

I'm sorry to hear about your mom Richard. My prayers go out to both of you.

[Ginger's Mom]

I am so sorry to hear that your mother and you are going through so much. More prayers are going out for both of you.

[Randi]

Richard, I'm so sorry to hear your mom is ill. I hope the treatment she gets will make her better! Parents can be so stubborn when it comes to going to hospital - I know first hand! Four days before John and I came back from a holiday in Spain, her doctor had told her she needed a blood transfusion, but she refused to get it before I was back.

Over that period, my sister wasn't much help, so I know there's a lot to deal with for you. I do hope you can count on your sister!

I don't know what Medical Power of Attorney is, but it's probably a good idea to get it signed.

I'm sending lots of positive thoughts to your mom - and to you. Hang in there, and do what you can!

(((hugs))) .... and headbumpies from Fister.