To write about the last two weeks of my life is heart-wrenching to say the least. I want to blog about the topic of role changes that naturally take place in a family over time, especially with an ill parent.
Almost 10 years ago my mother was diagnosed with brain tumors and from complications after the procedure she is now brain injured. Please note there is a difference in brain injured and brain damaged, I know she’ll be happy I called out that there is a difference. She is brain injured but it doesn’t take away from her capabilities to live independently, drive, etc. Her short-term memory loss is the most noticeable and she now has balance issues. But I’ll be honest, I’m not brain injured and I have Bambi legs; I fall, trip and run into walls all the time.
Shorty before this she had ovarian cancer and after she went on to have breast cancer. Two weeks ago we were informed that she now has Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and because her body is attacking itself right now she has autoimmune hepatitis.
If these circumstances are rough for me to cope with, I can only imagine the amount of stress and axiety she must go through on top of not feeling well. My siblings and I are rallying together to see who can do what and when, etc.
The stress from all of this comes from not wanting my mother to be taken from me too soon. There’s so much to do with her and to learn from her. I’m really grateful for today and any second given to our family. It’s all a gift at this point.
If you’re arguing with a parent right now, please stop and imagine your world without them in it. I promise you’ll get instant gratification from that perspective.
Go be love, the world needs you … Especially your family.
jenn says
Oh, man… reading this made my heart sink. You Mom was such a positive influence to me back during my high school years and even after. I always viewed her back then as a second Mom and as a strong woman. I hope your family is doing well and thanks for sharing.