A difficult journey...

[johnsemlak]

In just over a week from now, next Friday, I'll travel to the States from my adopted home on a special visit to my parents.

And, I'm slowly coming to terms with the fact that, barring a miracle, it will be the last time I ever see my mother.

My mother has a tumor growing in her neck, and has been battling cancer for many years now. The doctors feel she is unlikely to make the New Year.

I'm really looking forward to my visit, though I only saw them last month. So I'm quite positive right now. However, I'm now sure how difficult the leaving will be. When I leave, it will be nearly certain I'll never see her again.

Not sure what more to add. Thanks for listening (well, reading). Sorry to spam the board with another OT post.

 

[Wombat]

Peace be on you and your family.

I know this problem, having faced it with my grandmother, my mother, and my father. It is never easy.

Find some hope, hang on to it, and, sadly, accept that people die.

But also hang on to the stories. Through the memories, they continue to live, at least in our hearts.

Pax vobiscum.

 

[JRRNeiklot]

Sorry to hear that. I can relate somewhat, as my mother is having open heart surgery in the morning. There is nothing worse than losing your mother.

 

[Henry]

John, I hope that you have a fulfilling visit. I'm so sorry to hear the bad news, and I pray that you and she get to say everything you need to to one another. That's the biggest regret I have with my mother - she passed away during the night when I was 16 years old, and the last time I saw her was telling her good night before I went to bed. Had I known, I certainly would have said a lot more than "good night," but the fact that she knew I loved her was hopefully enough.

I pray all things work out for your family in the best possible way.

 

[Mark]

My deepest sympathies.

Do what you can with the time you have.

 

[Maldur]

Good luck, matey

I wish you a good trip and some happy days!

 

[Rel]

In a way, johnsemlak, we're all in the same boat. Nobody knows if the next time they see somebody may be the last. Having recently lost a friend who died unexpectedly at a young age, I've spent a good deal of time thinking about how trivial our final conversation was.

You have a big advantage over my situation. Knowing this may be the last time you see her alive must be incredibly, almost unimaginably hard. But it is also a gift. Make sure you say the things you need to say and do the things you need to do.

And know that if you need to talk about it, the people here are always around to listen.

God bless you and your family.

 

[Elf Witch]

This is really hard. You have my sympathies. I have not lost a parent but I have lost a child. It is never easy but at least you get a chance to say how much you love your mom.

Take one day at a time that is all you can really do.

 

[johnsemlak]

Thanks for the kind words guys.

Funny thing is I'm looking forward to my trip, which makes me feel funny about it. I'm even looking forward to getting some D&D stuff I ordered (BoED awaits!), but I also sort of feel guilty about feeling that way.

I try to tell myself I'm feeling positive about seeing my mother again; I guess it will really hit me as my visit draws to a close.

 

[Piratecat]

It shouldn't be strange that you're looking forward to seeing your Mom. I'm a strong believer in celebrating the people you love (and their lives) while you can, so they damn well know that they're appreciated.

Best of luck, John, and my thoughts will be with you guys.