That was really beautifully written, Helena. I know that feeling - waiting for the inevitable end of a life well and fiercely lived. You've reminded me of my mother's departure from this world - I felt that same way, each night wondering if I'd wake to hear her voice again.

May it be a peaceful passing. And may you and your family celebrate this life with joy.

My grandmother died when I was 16. It was strange, because Grandpa was the sick one and we all wondered how she would carry on when he went, but then she slipped in the shower and fell into a coma and all of a sudden it was him who we were worried about. 61 years together will do that to someone I suppose.

She stayed in the coma for about three days. Family was driving cross country to hold vigil at her bedside. It would be any moment, hour, day now we were told. Finally, the last car from Michigan showed up. Grandpa had said his goodbye and my cousin Sheila had brought him home.

My family gathered in her hospital room. There had to be 30 or 40 of us in there. The turned the machines off. A few minutes later she stopped breathing. All things considered it was relatively peaceful and I was thankful that she held on until everyone that was coming was there. I was also thankful that we could all be there with her.

It was one of the most remarkable moments in my life for a variety of reasons.

Helena you know that I am here for you now and always and that I love you very much.

Elba & Tipsy – my sincerest condolences on the loss of your mother. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts.

- Marina

I understand waiting more now that I'm older. When each of my grandparents passed away, it mostly seemed sudden even if it wasn't. Late night phone calls you don't want to answer though were something I understood from the beginning.

No stabs at wisdom, just kind thoughts for you. Remember to eat.

My husband's grandmother had Alzheimers and we had to wait for it to run it's course, so I understand your feelings. It is hard to lose a loved one and words can not really alleviate your anguish. We all care for you and are here for you.

Cyber hug coming your way...

What wonderful things you all have said. Thank you so much for that. Like I just told Rina, it's easy to get caught up in this all and forget I have my own feelings about her death.

She did slip away no more than ten minutes after I wrote this. The whirring of the oxygen machine ceased at 1:54 when my mother turned it off for good.

Thanks again to everyone who shared, it meant a lot to me.

i am so sorry for your loss. i spent the last days of my grandmother's life with her and it was profound.

take good care of you.
sizzle

Thanks to all of you for your kind words.
Thanks Marina for being there for Helen, and for your warm wishes for Elba and I.
Thank you Helen, for your wonderful and strong presence there. The legacy goes on...
Te quiero mucho
Tipsy

Thanks to all of you for your kind words.
Thanks Marina for being there for Helen, and for your warm wishes for Elba and I.
Thank you Helen, for your wonderful and strong presence there. The legacy goes on...
Te quiero mucho
Tipsy