Today is “Slice of Life” Tuesday – a wonderful writing challenge hosted at “Two Writing Teachers”, that encourages us to share a slice from our lives.
A quick change of plans last week resulted in us travelling to Montreal this Easter weekend, rather than celebrating at home with my husband’s children and grandchildren.
My father-in-law’s health had begun to decline in the past two weeks. At almost 88, he was frail and everyone feared the worst. All of the siblings converged on Montreal for a visit.
After an eight hour drive, we went to Bill’s sister’s place, the one who has most of the care for their dad. Then his brother and wife arrived. We had pizza and wine and spent a couple of hours sharing stories and catching up.
If nothing else, this weekend gave the siblings a chance to talk about their dad, his needs and what they needed to do in the days and weeks ahead.
We visited Dad on Saturday and Sunday and it was heartbreaking seeing him so changed. We had last seen him in August and although he was in a wheelchair, he was alert, interested and well, Dad.
This weekend, he slept most of the time, hunched in his new chair. When he was awake, he mumbled or spoke in short bursts. He has lost so much weight and looks unwell.
I am so glad we went. My husband needed to see his dad and the siblings needed time together. We are all saddened by the changes and know it will be only a matter of time before we return to Montreal for a different reason.
Surely not easy, yet a time that will be treasured… prayers for your family…
Thanks for the prayers – they’ll be needed.
Endings are so hard. Glad you have family support.
Thanks – that support is wonderful in his family.
How wonderful that you were all able to be together with your father in law.
Thanks Tara. I am so glad we did go.
How great that you were able to go and be with family. It is hard to watch parents age and no longer be the person you once knew.
So true Elsie. Just a month ago we had a good conversation with him on the phone. He has deteriorated so much in a month.
So, so hard to watch. Even so, I’m glad that your husband got to be with his dad and family.
Thanks Carol. I’m glad we went as well, especially for all the siblings to have this time together as well.