Re: Help for Mom

One of the hardest things that I have ever had to do was tell my mother that it was OK for her to leave. I had been her personal carer for 4 years as she deteriorated from ALS to the point where she couldn't do anything at all for herself. I knew she was getting tired. As much as it pained me, I couldn't stand the thought of her hanging on longer than she wanted to just for fear of leaving us. So I told her that when the time was right and she was ready to go, that she should, and that we would be OK.

She died not long after that. Peacefully and in her sleep. She told me just days before she passed that she saw her own parents in a dream. I personally doubt very much that it was a dream. I choose to believe that they were there to help her cross. Just as I believe that she will be there for me when that time comes.

I miss her with my whole heart every moment of every day. It's been 4 years now, and I know that she is still with me, but it's not the same. I still go to pick up the phone sometimes to call her, before I remember that I can't do that anymore.

Tell your mother everything that you ever wanted her to know. I was lucky. I got to do that. When she left, she left with nothing left unsaid between us. She knew she was loved and I knew how much she loved me.

I don't want to bring you down. Just be prepared. If worse comes to worse, let her know how you feel. You will be so sorry if you don't.

I will pray for you both. I know how tough this is for both of you.