Tomorrow is a big day for mom. We will finally have some answers regarding her health. Tomorrow, she goes to Roswell for tests.

To be expected, she is nervous, scared, anxious. Dad and I share these same emotions, but we are keeping our countenance steady. Trying to emulate strength. We need to be the strength for mom while she focuses on getting herself healed.

Since July 28th, when mom was initially hospitalized, we have prayed for her healing. Each day, asking God to remain by her side and grant her divine comfort.

Watching a parent suffer, and not being able to help them, is a special kind of hell. Mom being hospitalized is sad and frustrating, but she’s kept comfortable, and by extension, we are comforted. Seeing dad deal with his sweetheart’s declining health is absolutely heart wrenching. He has been mom’s companion for over fifty years. A marriage that could teach us all a lesson in loyalty, devotion, and true love. Dad has always taken pride in caring for mom himself. Until he just couldn’t anymore. It became painfully clear that he/we were not able to provide the level of care mom needed.

Each day, since July 28th, mom’s healthcare has been in the hands of medical professionals. Dad and I do our best to advocate for mom. Although we are generally pleased with the care she’s received so far, we feel that the transition from hospital to rehab could have been smoother. Communication was poor to non existent from one facility to the next. Intervention from family on behalf of patient is key, dad and I have found.

In the age of Covid, loved ones are sometimes forced to be physically distanced. (Another layer in an already emotionally charged situation.) We make the best of it, and enjoy brief daily visits at mom’s window. She’s in pain, always tired, but puts on a beautiful smile for us. Mom is trying her best in OT/PT to regain some mobility. Her goal is to return home. Our goal, since day one, has been to get her home. We are presently working on some modifications to mom and dad’s house. We want her to be able to live comfortably and safely.

As tomorrow approaches, my anxiety increases. I cannot imagine how my mom must feel right now. Praying that she rests well tonight. Also concerned for dad. He puts on a brave face, but his heart aches for his sweetheart. To have such selfless love for another, free from disparaging judgment, is rare and beautiful.

We will face tomorrow as a family united. Though worry cannot be averted, nothing that will be revealed tomorrow can crush our hope. Strength, faith, and love will win.

Prayers welcome. Updates to follow.

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