jennifers

Honeez – I lost my Dad to this cancer 2 years ago in June. I can so remember the emotions we went through when hospice got involved. We had nurses stay at the house at night for the first while, and then we eventually moved him to a hospice. The day they came to take him from the house is one I will never forget, but once we were there, we wished we had been able to bring him sooner. He would have loved it, and the people. It’s a terrifying and sad step, but one I’m sure he, and all of you, will be happy to have made. We were so lucky with Dad as the nurses and staff were incredible. He made a peep and they were in there making sure he was 100% comfortable. We never had to worry about him hurting. You have to watch carefully though – nobody deserves to go through pain, it’s unecessary and some places are better then others about ensuring the complete comfort of the patients.

What Notdoneyet said about those final days… it’s true. As hard as it is, try to look past losing him and see what it is he is gaining, and know there is no doubt in the world that they are not alone, not for one second. It’s an incredible journey, one I wrote about here and I’m sure you could search if you were interested. Those last few weeks with Dad were incredible, and brought me more peace then I could have ever hoped for. It’s hard, and emotional, and I miss him terribly, but I know he’s in a good place… the way he talked about his “other world” ensured we KNEW it was a good place.

I wish you many good times and positive memories with your Dad ahead. Make sure to let him know that you are going to be okay while you can. I think all Dad’s need to know there little girls (regardless of age) are going to be okay. Take advantage of every second with him, and know that there are people all over the world thinking of you and praying for you, and your family. Stay strong.

Hugs from across the miles,
Jen

I’m so sorry to hear about Bruce. He sounds like an incredible human being, and I’m sure an angel like him will continue to bring light, even in his absence. May your memories bring you peace and comfort.

Jen

Hello! Thanks for the love! We are all doing well. You are right about Katelyn – she’s growing like a weed. I don’t know if I can attach a link to pictures on facebook, but I’ll give it a try… otherwise, feel free to add me (Jennifer Sadler, dymond_jennifer@hotmail.com).

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150553395595386.650018.731365385&type=3#!/photo.php?fbid=10151971415630386&set=a.10150553395595386.650018.731365385&type=3&theater

This was taken over the summer, so a few months ago. She turned 3 at the beginning of September. I haven’t heard from Dad in a while – not since my last post. We were flying to Ontario last week and Katelyn made a comment about being in the sky just like Papa and asked if we could see him. We had a good chuckle trying to explain to her that we didn’t particularly want to “see” him while flying in an airplane. That can wait a few (or a lot) more years Lainy – I think it would be amazing to visit with a medium. I’m sure Teddy will come through loud and clear

Mom is doing well. Keeping herself busy with work and renovations at home. The grandkids always keep her busy too. We wish she went out socially more, but hopefully it will come in time. Mom and Dad were always homebodies and loved just being with each other, so I really can’t imagine how hard that transition would be.

I am still on here almost every day keeping tabs on everyone – thanks again for the messages.

Love to you all!

Jen

Praying, praying, praying!!! Will be thinking of you all and sending every ounce of positive energy I can muster for good results after the MRI.

Hugs,
Jen

SENSITIVE:

Jose,

I just wanted mention something about the breathing. About a week before Dad passed, he started having really deep sleeps similar to what you are talking about, and his breath slowed down incredibly. I remember sitting with him for an entire night counting his breaths, convinced each would be his last. He only took a breath once every 45 seconds or so (I can’t remember exactly, but I do know it’s in one of my posts here somewhere). He wasn’t on much pain medication at that point – it seems the pain had gone away. You may be right about the doctors giving so much sedative that she slept deeply, but I also believe the slowing of the breath could be a natural next step with your sister. It’s hard to say. One thing I know for sure is that these days are so tough, and I am thinking of you and your family constantly during the difficult time.

Hugs,
Jen

I am so sorry and so angry that you are having to deal with this – this time should be spent being with your sister with as little stress on both of you as possible. For them to stop meds without consulting you was completely wrong. She is lucky to have you as such a strong advocate. I hope you are right and the meds kick in quickly, so she can relax and get some rest (which means YOU can relax and get some rest). All my thought and prayers are with you both….

Jen

Hi Lainy,
I am doing well! I am still here almost every day, I just don’t add too much . Thinking and praying for everyone on a daily basis though! Glad to see you back – I hope you are enjoying your new place!

Jen