There is a time when we all take for granted our strength. My father's strength is failing. His mental abilities are failing. I took this photo today of my father taking his physical therapy to walk again when he was walking fine a few weeks ago. My brother and I have been moving him slowly to Assisted Living. It has not been easy. Quite frankly I'm exhausted. I don't know what the future holds, but I do know how tenderly I hold my father in my heart.
I had to go through the same with my mum Daryl. It breaks my heart to read this as I know the pain you are going through. Difficult times ahead for you and your family but your love for each other will be your strength! Always remember those happier times and treasured memories which will help during the hard times. Big hug xxx
Oh Daryl, I feel for you. My dad is not great at the moment either - eye and hip problems. In fact I'm taking him to hospital today for checks. It is so, so, hard when your strong father starts to fail. My dad was always stalwart, stoic and someone we looked up to physically and emotionally. We still do, but now he needs a little help. He never needed help. He never asked for help. It's hard. I lost my mum very suddenly, and it was devastating, but with hindsight, I feel it is easier to deal with shock than this gradual separation. My heart goes out to you. Stay strong my friend.
Daryl, there can't hardly be a harder time than when we turn into caregivers and decision makers for our parents or spouses. Having watched my mother and husband go down this path you have my heart felt sympathy. The most important advise I can give you is to take care of yourself. You can;t be of help if you get physically and emotionally run down.
@joansmor I can only do what I can. I totally understand the term mid-life crisis now. I leave Friday for Boston to tour colleges for my daughter in the NE and in St. Louis. I am the mother of two teens. Run down is what it is.
@jamibann@pamknowler@kali66@annied Thanks all. This is my second turn at this rodeo so to speak (3rd when my grandfather had Alzheimers). Thanks for all your kind words.
I have recently been more or less where you are and I know how difficult it is to be an involved observer in this process. Whatever I can do, even if it is just listen, i hope you will use me. This is a wonderfully poignant image
