Wow. Have the last few days, weeks, months been a whirlwind or what? And it ain’t over yet. After nearly a month in Palliative Care at PMH my mom was transported home yesterday. You know the phrase “mind over matter”? Look it up and you will find a big pic of my mom! She has willed herself stable enough to get home in time for my sister’s wedding next week. And although much has changed and her health has really deteriorated I was reminded as we drove home in the ambulance that beneath the tubes and skinny body my mom is still there, the same as ever.
Here is a pic of my mom on the ambulance ride home. The reason I share this is because you would not believe what she was doing. Despite the many drugs given to her to keep her comfy and help her sleep the woman was BACKSEAT DRIVING FROM THE AMBULANCE!!! She was looking out the back window (keep in mind, she was seeing what we had already passed) and she was telling the ambulance driver where to go for the whole two hour ride! That’s my mom.
When we finally got to her place and my dad asked her how she was feeling her response was “Words can’t describe it. I am euphoric.” Can’t you tell?!
She could not be happier and so are we. She will be able to, at least in some small ways, be a part of my sister’s big day. She will be able to gaze out her window, smelling the country breeze and enjoying her grandchildren. And who wouldn’t enjoy this?
That is so inspirational. Your mom looks absolutely glowing in those pink PJ’s. Can I eat that baby – how cute is she??
Hi Diane and family:
We are so glad that you are back at home in the beautiful Beaver Valley. What a wonderful and spiritual place for Allyson’s wedding. Our love, thoughts and best to you and your family
Doug and Eileen
Hi Jen,
Your mom looks very happy. I am so glad she is home. Emma is beautiful. Best re the wedding and congratulations to the whole family for working everything out so Diane could go home.
Best,
Laurel and Carl
Jen:
Another novice blogger checking in! How generous of you to share your Mum with us by way of these great photos. Keep them coming as those of us who are not in the area need to have a “piece” of Diane……we feel we are closer to her, and to all of you, in some odd way when we can look at her.
Diane is one tough and strong lady…..we had to be to survive those years of slave labor at KGH. We were “trained” in more than nursing skills……
I know that Diane’s relationship with her girls has always been (and continues to be I am sure) the focus of her life, with sons-in-law and grandchildren now added. You have shared and given each other so very much. I believe that that happens sometimes when time together is going to be cut short – quality over-rides quantity.
Wish I could help in some way, but then, I don’t think you NEED help…..you are doing such a wonderful job of dealing with a most difficult and special opportunity.
Hugs, love and peace to you all,
Sally
Dear Jen and family
Wow, what an inspiration your dear mom, my big cousin Di is. I am so happy to see these pics, cousin Di you look just wonderful.
I am so happy your mom is home Jen and able to partake in Allyson’s wedding. We are all so happy for this, from here in QC and send you all our love and best wishes to the bride and groom. Your Mom is such a beautiful lady, we are all blessed to know her. Lots of love to you all, you are always in our thoughts. xo Jo
Jen, wonderful to see Di and grandchild. Tell Di that I like her new hair cut. Just right length showing and just letting it dry. Give my love to your MOM and Dave.
Love from Tucson
Your cousin Sue
PS. Aunt Mary was a good drive but just love to put the peddle to the metal and speed in and out of traffic. I just loved it. She and Di are the same. They know where they want to be and how to get there…….
PPS the monsoon season has not yet begun…Hot and a little muggy here in Tucson.
Sue
Jen, wonderful to see Di and grandchild. Tell Di that I like her new hair cut. Just right length showing and just letting it dry. Give my love to your MOM and Dave.
Love from Tucson
Your cousin Sue
PS. Aunt Mary was a good drive but just love to put the peddle to the metal and speed in and out of traffic. I just loved it. She and Di are the same. They know where they want to be and how to get there…….
PPS the monsoon season has not yet begun…Hot and a little muggy here in Tucson.
Sue
Jen,
What wonderful pictures. Di you look so gloriously happy with that grandchild in your arms. I am so glad you will be able to share in your daughters happy day!
Gary and I send are love to all of you and our best wishes to the Bride and Groom on their wedding day.
Today is all we ever really have and your mom has certainly reminded me to stay positive and anything is possible.
That has got to be the most beautiful smile on a baby I have ever seen!!
Glad to finally see what you look like Jen. Am not computer savvy at all – exactly what is a blog anyway. You can tell I am from the “out of it” generation. Hope I get to meet you someday – I can tell you are one very special woman.
Give your mom a Big Kiss and a Welcome Home from us. And Yes I certainly see her
mom when I look at her. When I hear she is backseat driving I am also reminded of
Aunt Mary and all her directions.
Love, hugs and Positive Vibes,
Sallie
Jen,
The power of love and positive, present being is truly amazing.
Your mom continues to inspire us, please thank her for showing us everyday that the here and now is everything.
love to you all and a blissful wedding celebration.
Id
Way to go team! Aunti Di looks so happy. Enjoy. Erin I totally agree, I see alot of Grandma too. xoxo
goosebumps, Jen.
this is such a gift. treasure it.
(also? i LOVE that she was backseat driving)
I’m so happy she’s home.
Emma is just about the cutest baby ever!
I’m seeing a lot of Grandma in the photo of Auntie Di with Emma.
The happiness is such a gift. And who wouldn’t smile with that incredible, edible baby nearby???
So glad she is home! Wonderful to be a part of it.
I’m not sure whose smile is wider….your mom’s or your niece’s! I’m so glad for all of you that you’re together and home, looking forward to a wonderful day!
Congratulations to your Mom! I’m sure you will all enjoy this time together. I know your sister’s wedding will be that much more special.
Delighted that you all can enjoy this seemingly small but truly gigantic blessing.
I totally get “that beneath the tubes and skinny body my mom is still there, the same as ever.” My Mom use to remind us: “I’m still me you know!” (Hey nice to see her hair growing back!)
Cherish the moments. Thinking of you all!