My mother, a typical Southern-belle, has decided she’s not ready to die right now after all (her words). We have stepped up our care for both my parents however. Especially Papa who seems to be failing very fast.
We were told a step down would take place regarding dementia when we changed their address. Also with any major event, like going to the hospital or being separated or people gathering. Each change in routine can cause a decline. After all the company that came and went at Christmas, we expected something.
This time it has been a major shift. Papa’s legs stopped working overnight. Whether from a mental block or actual physical limitations, they will not bare his weight. He can not walk in the house, much less up the driveway and down the street for their little strolls (sometimes 2 0r 3 times a day). I actually dreamed of pushing him in a wheelchair the night before I had to quickly run and grab it!
Thankfully we have one from the days my grandmother lived with us growing up. As he’s been shuffling around the apartment lately, struggling with transfers from chair to standing, Hospice warned me this process would become more and more difficult for him.
Medicines, meals, laundry, floor mopping, carpet cleaning, many-many bed changes, clothes changes, diaper changes… followed by long slow hours of watching and waiting. Sometimes it gets crazy and I feel nuts. My husband and I go to bed at night exhausted, thinking surely 3 days have passed instead of just 1.
I miss my sisters already, they were great help. Tomorrow brings our care-helper back. I will take one moment at a time, knowing God is near. He never leaves me to do this alone. He will show us how to handle this next phase. I believe He has a plan, because nothing He does is ever wasted. Pray for us!
ForGlorySake! -Anna
