In Sept 2014 she was diagnosed. In October 2015 I became a primary caregiver. I was 26, had just moved back home and not prepared for what was ahead. I was always a sheltered daughter. I had a loving home. Never had to battle much adversity. Until now. I quit work and stayed home. Everyday. Morning till morning. Only sleeping in 2 hour intervals because morphine needed to be pushed into her. I fed, changed, dressed, and caught her when she fell. I grew up overnight. After a month of this, a day after my 27th birthday, she left. I will always believe she stayed for my birthday. It will always be the best birthday present I’ve ever received.
For Mom
A grief narrative by Catherine
- Catherine
More Stories
The Mirror
When I was younger, I didn’t understand anything about death and loss, I always used to think, why didn’t dad do this or do that, or say this or say that, and why couldn’t he cope better? I really didn’t give him a break...
BD
Brian Dixon8 min read • 28 days ago
Grit
Fingertips run along railings and the latter half of a soft torso rests in chairs once occupied by a giant. These are the new memories. A sampling anyway. The playlist of a Londoner helping to steer me straight as a bent arrow through a tunnel I will likely never drive...
EV
Elisa Valentine3 min read • over 1 year ago
Dear Grandma
I don't know if I feel you or not, but I really still can't comprehend that you're not here anymore. It kind of feels like this whole past year without you has just been a long time without seeing you or calling you...
SC
Samantha Collier2 min read • over 2 years ago