If I hadn't told you before, my mother has MS. On my recent trip home, I spent time with my family, and this was definitely the worst I had seen her health in many years. I think it worried me so much because this was the first time that my father was not positive about her health. Before it was always, "She'll be around forever." This time he mentioned a "If something happened to your mom . . . " It was the first time that I've ever (in the 15 years she's been diagnosed with it) heard him verbalize the fact that something may happen to her.
After I came back and interviewed with the trade magazine, I called to tell my parents how well it had went. My mother was confused and not very coherent. After many calls between me and my sister, my sister finally insisted my dad bring her to St. Louis for tests. I think this is the first time one of her MS attacks may have affected her mind.
Being 1500 miles away, I don't know what to do. Part of me wonders what will be best for my family. Part of me is also jealous of my cousin Doug who buried his mom this past weekend. He was in his 60s before he had to say good-bye. There are few of us who are that lucky.
3 comments:
I will tell you first hand my friend that it blows at this age being so far away and having to fly home for a funeral. I just keep remembering how my dad always wanted me to fulfill my dreams and he knew that at the time they just weren't at home in Detroit. I'll always be here if you want to talk.
Jayna, I agree with that first comment--it is tough not being closer to your family in situations like this. But it sounds like your fam would want nothing less than for you to fulfill your dreams, even if that meant moving far away. I go through guilt sometimes about being away from my dad when he's all I have, but he wouldn't have me living at home for him! Granted, if he got sick, I'd be home in a heartbeat. But your mom has your dad to take care of her, and I know that if things got really bad, you'd be home in a heartbeat, too. I'm here too, if you need to talk! But you're doing what you have to do, so don't feel guilty. xo, Tina
very few of us that lucky - you know i speak from experience.
thinking of you, girl. call me if you want to chat.
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