Closing this chapter of our lives

I am writing this with a deeply saddened heart to let all of you know that at 4:41 PM yesterday our mom Carolyn ended her journey with us here on Earth and moved on to a better place. A place where she will have no more pain and suffering. A place where she can watch us and give us a smile in the form of a twinkle.

My brothers, sisters, and I have so many people to thank for their love, support and prayers. Special thanks to my family members, friends, and nursing staff (including hospice) who have been by her side everyday and to our spouses and children for understanding and dealing with our hectic schedules and being away from home. You have given us Time that we can all treasure. Thank You.

One of the last discussions that my mom and I had was her reminding me to thank everybody for everything they have done for her throughout her life and for family that she leaves behind.

SO THANKS to ALL OF YOU From my mom.

The end has come!

Mom is now finished with her journey on Earth and should be thru the pearly gates by the time you read this posting.

Quick Recap of Yesterday Events

Just to let everyone know... I need you to email me your telephone numbers (you will see why in this email).

Mom took a turn closer to heaven yesterday. Aunt Pat was sitting with Mom yesterday morning and about 11 a.m. Christi and I decided we seperately would go see Mom. When we got there, Mom was in her chair in a newly found state of non-responsiveness. After the nurses did their evaluation, they had to put her on oxygen and move her to her bed for the duration of her journey. As they were placing her in her bed, she had a seizure. Hospice and the nurses remained with us for a majority of afternoon/evening. Her vitals were fluctuating throughout the night. She is in a totally non-responsive state and sleeping comfortably. We are just waiting for her time. I will keep you posted.

We were blessed in the fact that many family and friends were able to show their love and support for Mom and us. The nurses piled in and out all afternoon to check on their favorite resident. Some shared stories of how amazing she has been (oh, how we know) and how she has affected their lives (seems like everyone she crosses paths with has an amazing story). During these visits, we were fortunate enough to have her priest come and issue her last rite (Annointing of the Sick). After this, someone decided that they needed my cell phone more than I do; therefore, I am without everyone's numbers and last weekend's pictures of my Mom. Needlessly to say, this individual has taken more than just a phone... she took moments away from us being with our Mother in her time. After a breakdown and several searches later - to no avail... I realized it will be okay with the help of hearing Karen say over and over again "There is a place for that person." and "You know it will come back around on them."

If I have missed anyone I apologize and please pass this information on.

Thanks again for your support and prayers.
Kim (and families)

Another week has passed...

Mom is doing okay. Hospice is controlling the pain and agitation. She is getting weaker with each passing day. Special thanks to Aunt Linda and Aunt Pat who have been staying with Mom each day; while the rest of us go to work. I am not sure what we would do without them. The rest of the family is adjusting to the new hectic schedule and try to make it to her side every chance we get. It is such a hard balance between our kids, husbands, and work to our ailing mother. Our children all know what is going on and dealing with it in the hectic world of an adult can sometimes be tough for them to grasp; but they all seem to be doing okay. Only time will tell how prepared they are and we are.

Thanks for the continued support and prayers. Also thanks Dolly and Aunt Lillie for your time today. It means so much to be surrounded by so much love:)

Mom reminded me tonight to thank everyone for coming to visit and for their help. She is amazing so sick and thinking of others still.

Kim

Today

Hospice came for a couple of visits today. Aunt Linda and Aunt Pat spent the day with Mom feeding her ice cream and popsicles (thanks Vic). Hospice has increased her meds to help with the agitation and to help try to stabilize her. Keep your fingers crossed and the prayers coming.

Thanks to all who continue to visit her and comfort us.

Good night!

2009 New Year

Many of Mom's closest friends and family have been spent day and night with her. She is now receiving hospice care and in a state of decline. Mom is aware of what is going on and seems to be at peace. We are asking for the prayers, love and support to continue that God's Will be done.