With all the photos of my mom and dad on particle boards, the members of my mom and dad’s church celebrated their lives. They were moved by my story that my dad’s decline occurred on the one year anniversary of my mom’s death. He seemed to go downhill instantly. Father Quinn came to give him Last Rights that day but he suffered the final massive stroke only a few days later.
The hospice workers told me this is common for couples who have been married for a long time. My mom and dad were married for over 60 years. I guess my dad missed my mom too much he was ready to go. He proved he was tough and could last one year without her, but he was too lonely without her in his life. I feel my mom came to collect him on the anniversary of her death.
When the stroke occurred, my dad went brain dead instantly. I appreciate so many people praying for my dad and family. The people on the Warrior Forum were particularly kind and compassionate.
The hospice workers and nurses who spent the last six days of my dad’s life, taking care of him 24-7, while his body shell shut down with out food or water, were unbelievably kind and compassionate. Even they were amazed at the degree of peace and tranquility my dad showed in his final days. They said there had never seen some one last so long with such an amazing demeanor. Truly, he already had one foot in heaven.
The good thing about my mom and dad dying is that so many people shared their last moments with their parents and loved ones. There are so many saints I have met who shared their extraordinary sacrifices to care for their parents and loved ones to the end.
My mom and dad’s deaths were a blessing and a great relief. I had followed through on my promise to make it possible for my mom and dad to die in their own home with me holding their hands, saying goodbye and asking them to put in a good word to Jesus for me.
Now that they are gone, I am going to help others with the knowledge I have gained through 4 difficult years. If only I knew at the beginning of the ordeal that I know now. Since I put the In Search Of Heroes Program on hold for 4 years to take care of my mom and dad, it is now time to share the wisdom I have gained that will save others much of the emotional pain I experienced and financial mistakes I made.
Mom and dad, I love and miss you. You were my greatest heroes and inspired my In Search Of Heroes Program. Thanks for sacrificing your lives for me.