Thank you for sharing this Ailsa. So moving, real and heartfelt. I hope to be as clear of mind as your father was in his last days. It is a testament to the reason his passing was still a shock. He was still vibrant and present. In contrast, I am so saddened by my brother-in-law's condition. He turned 65 last January. Two years ago at Christmas he was diagnosed with prostrate cancer, an inoperable brain tumor and Parkinson's. I know... unbelievable. He was an athletic, active man that was often mistaken for his grandchildren's father. He is now unable to go for a slow walk and the simplest of tasks are exhausting. He can no longer play guitar and he was an accomplished musician and composer. This year it is evident that he is in a drastic cognitive decline. It is like watching a train wreck in slow motion. Absolutely nothing you can do and devastating to witness. We must all cherish each moment. I know that is trite but when I look at him the precarious state of our lives is drilled home. I am happy that your father was there with your mother and I hope that all my family is able to be a steady hand at my brother-in-law's side for as long as he needs us there.
Oh, I'm so sorry about your brother-in-law Laurel...all of those ailments and being so debilitated at such a young age is tragic! I can't even get my head around it. And yes, you are absolutely right - we can't wait to live our lives because we don't know what tomorrow will bring. And even if it seems they're not the same person as they used to be, they still benefit from our presence and care. My Mom, as you recall, is in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease and it is sadly a slow death and agonizing decline. I'm sending you strength as you navigate your b-in-law's condition and help him through this journey. xo
Thank you for sharing this Ailsa. So moving, real and heartfelt. I hope to be as clear of mind as your father was in his last days. It is a testament to the reason his passing was still a shock. He was still vibrant and present. In contrast, I am so saddened by my brother-in-law's condition. He turned 65 last January. Two years ago at Christmas he was diagnosed with prostrate cancer, an inoperable brain tumor and Parkinson's. I know... unbelievable. He was an athletic, active man that was often mistaken for his grandchildren's father. He is now unable to go for a slow walk and the simplest of tasks are exhausting. He can no longer play guitar and he was an accomplished musician and composer. This year it is evident that he is in a drastic cognitive decline. It is like watching a train wreck in slow motion. Absolutely nothing you can do and devastating to witness. We must all cherish each moment. I know that is trite but when I look at him the precarious state of our lives is drilled home. I am happy that your father was there with your mother and I hope that all my family is able to be a steady hand at my brother-in-law's side for as long as he needs us there.
Oh, I'm so sorry about your brother-in-law Laurel...all of those ailments and being so debilitated at such a young age is tragic! I can't even get my head around it. And yes, you are absolutely right - we can't wait to live our lives because we don't know what tomorrow will bring. And even if it seems they're not the same person as they used to be, they still benefit from our presence and care. My Mom, as you recall, is in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease and it is sadly a slow death and agonizing decline. I'm sending you strength as you navigate your b-in-law's condition and help him through this journey. xo