We came here in hopes that I would be able to stay with my mom and help her by sitting with my grandfather and keeping him company throughout the day. My grandmother had just passed away about a month ago, and he was lonely. At the time of this decision making process, he was also in good enough shape to take care of himself.
However, things changed quickly and when we arrived, he was in the hospital fighting pneumonia. Then he would be moved to rehab, and eventually he was moved to hospice care, and is now in home hospice.
The first day he came back, I could tell he was scared. It must be hard being told that you are going home to finish out the last of your days. But, he smiled and retold all the stories to me that I had heard many many times before--and I sat and listened just a little bit harder, because I didn't know when will be the last time I might hear those stories.
He mentioned his travels all around the world, and then paused.
He then stated that he was sure his traveling days were over now.
I smiled and told him that many people dream to have seen all the places he has been, and that he should be happy to have so many wonderful stories to share.
Then we both sat in silence for a while.
Luckily the silence was broken when my mom, and her cousin came in to check on him and see what they would need to do to keep him comfortable while in our care.
A few days have passed since then. He has kind of been secluded to his own little space, and mostly slept through out the day. I have been mostly just trying to keep the kids out of the house or occupied to give him peace. I try to help as much as possible, but being 38 weeks pregnant, there is not much I can to do help anyone these days.
However, today was different. Today was a small family celebration of my grandfather's upcoming 87th birthday. He was able to be moved to his comfy recliner chair in the living room and really spend some time with the family. It was the first time I've seen him lose the look of fear in his eyes since he has been home.
It's hard for me, because I have missed so many birthday celebrations, so many holidays, and so many moments with both of my grandparents. I was never really around much, and now in such a short period of time they will have both passed away.
But for now he is still here with us, and I am going to cherish the time that I have with him.
Today is about life. Today is a gift. Today will never come again.
Choose to forgive yourself and others for the times you might not have had, and make up for it with the time you do have.
Happy early birthday Paw Paw. I'm glad I got to spend it with you today.
Be Kind,
Kelly Airhart
www.kellyairhart.com
I love how sweet you are towards your grandfather. You may have missed lots of moments to be by his side, but it's nice to see you making up for them now, and it's never too late to do that. Your grandfather seems like a sweet man, and I can tell that he is proud to have you as his granddaughter, Kelly. Thank you so much for sharing such a heartfelt post! All the best to you!
ReplyDeleteJoel Pratt @ Comfort Keepers