I've not had much time in the Craft Cave and no time to post to my blog. I've taken a leave of absence from my job to care for my mother-in-law and her husband (an Alzheimer's patient) 24/7. Gene and Irene don't have a computer and I can only access the internet when I'm home. I'm only home for short periods on occasion when someone can stay with Irene.
Irene remains the strong beautiful woman she has always been. Our hospice team is absolutely wonderful. Irene tells each and every nurse and aide how much she appreciates their presence at this time in her life. Our last trip out and about was Friday, two weeks ago, and we had manicures and pedicures and "did" lunch. What a fun afternoon that was. We laughed and enjoyed this last adventure.
My goal is to keep Gene and Irene together until her passing. Gene's Alzheimer's produces good days and difficult days; but, I'm able to "keep him on track" enough to stay a part of Irene's life. She is able to be out of bed only for short periods of time; but, is experiencing little pain. The nurses have only administered morphine on three occasions.
Irene often reflects on the magnificient care she received from her oncology team at the Simon Center and the quality time their care has given her. Irene remains one of the most gracious individuals ever.
I'll be back crafting, and making vids as soon as possible. Miss my scrappin' sistahs.
Live long & prosper,
Weezie
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It's precious to hear you talk about your mother-in-law that way. You are an inspiration in more ways than one! Thank you for sharing what is going on in your life. I know this is a time of joys and sorrows and she is so blessed to have you. I'll keep you all in my prayers:) Kenna
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers are with you all. I have recently lost my mother who was suffering from dementia and know how hard it is to care for someone with this illness. But I really admire what you are doing to keep your mother and father in laws together. Take care. Hugs Alyson x
ReplyDeletePrayers and hugs coming your way! God is good to connect us this way. I know exactly what you are going thru...been there, done that. It's difficult, but after it is over you will have no regrets and it will be a blessing to you. Caretakers are angels.
ReplyDeleteCheck out the auction from Christie's. Star Trek "everything". Amazing!
Judy
Weezie so good to read your blog, I too have been MIA but for a happier occasion i was In South Africe for my sisters 2nd wedding!Weezie i had a MIL with Alzeimers...difficult task, I salute you for a very difficult task, my prayers are with you.....
ReplyDeleteZeffy
I am so glad that you are OK, and very sorry to hear about your MIL, but hope that that as you say you and she are able to have moments together to store up those memories. I realize how difficult Alzeimers can be on the whole family, and hope that the good days out number the bad. I worked in a hospital here in Michigan, with the terminally ill, and was trained in Hospice as a volunteer. What our friends gave to us in the last days was more valuable then most can imagine. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your mother in law. May peace and comfort be with you all.
ReplyDeleteBecky from michigan
Weezie, I am thinking about you. I hope your MIL and Gene don't suffer. My mother had Alzheimers for 29 years. She was 42, I was 12 and my youngest brother was 6. (there were 8 of us) Mother lived to be 71, but was not really "here". She could only move her eyes for the last 6 months or so and hadn't walked in more than 10 years. It is very sad, but I am so thankful to the Lord that she did not suffer in pain. I know she is now walking and talking with the Lord. You have taken on a tough job out of love!
ReplyDeleteMaggie in WV
We too have cared for loved ones with Alzheimers. Bless you! Just remember that the care-giver needs care too. Sure do miss you!
ReplyDeleteJudy in Fernandina Beach, FL
Is so nice of you to make a post during this time. My thoughts and prayer are with the sick but, also with the care-giver. God bless you and your love onces. We miss you work!
ReplyDeletexxx
Marlene