| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| laurentany |
Posted - Aug 19 2010 : 9:07:26 PM
Recently I have been going through alot with my Dad who is dying from cancer..I have come across all sorts of people in all of our outings for medical treatments. In meeting so many new people, it has me thinkin' alot. Yesterday I was Blessed with many wonderful people who loved and supported me, even though they really dont even know me. At the chemo infusion center, where we were told that my dads cancer has spread through his body and there is no further treatment that anyone can offer,kind nurses just came up to me and hugged me, social workers sat and cried with me as we discussed hospice options. As we left chemo to go to the hospital for blood tranfusions I pulled into the emergency dept. and 2 wonderful attendants eagerly directed me to pull to the curb and they would take care of parking my car. They gave me the valet ticket and couldnt have been nicer...2 perfect strangers saw that I needed assistance and rushed to my side to help me get my dad in the wheelchair. All of these actions touched my heart during what was a very long and difficult day. Lately I have been thinking so much about perspective in life. I realize that "no matter how bad you have it there is always someone who has it worse". I am thankful for the days that I do have with my dad, and am trying to show the rest of my family that we need to just be thankful for the "moments" that we share.
I am thankful that I have had the chance to "meet" and share with so many of you. This is a wonderful site, and as crazy as it all may sound it means alot to me to be a part of it. Although I have never actually met any of you in person, you are all a special Blessing and the stories and experiences we share here are what tighten the bond amongst us. For this I thank you all!
Just to end this "story" with a funny aside to my tales about the people you meet.... after spending 17 hours out of the house with my very ill dad, and after 2 blood tranfusions we were finally able to leave the hospital at 1 AM this morning. When I had arrived at the hospital I had given my keys to the valet. Well apparantely at 1AM there is no such thing as valet... so I had to go to the security desk in the hospital, who then sent me out to the entrance of the hospital to the security booth, where I proceeded to knock on the window and explain that somewhere in that booth were my car keys. The gentlemen there really didnt seem too interested in assisting me, other than to just hand me my keys. As he did so, I said to him "well can you please tell me where my car is parked?" To which he replied..."Well, where did YOU park it?" "Very funny" I said and turned and walked away. THIS is not the type of person that I enjoyed coming in contact with, although his "stupidity" did give me a good laugh!
Although this experience with my dad is difficult, I am thankful for it because I believe it has made me a better person, a person who is able to see a little clearer what truly matters in life.
Smiles and Hugs to all of my fellow sisters!
Laurie
Farmgirl Sister#1403
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.. |
| 25 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| laurentany |
Posted - Aug 24 2010 : 8:21:17 PM
I just want to say again, Thank you to all of my fellow farmgirls who were kind enough to comment, leave there thoughts and prayers and personal stories. It means alot to me knowing that you all are there for me, as I am for you if you need me.
Thank you again!
Smiles,
Laurie
Farmgirl Sister#1403
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.. |
| Bonnie Ellis |
Posted - Aug 24 2010 : 7:12:25 PM
Laurie. I lost my dad from cancer in 3 weeks after he was diagnosed. God bless you. Peace will come with your good memories. Bonnie
grandmother and orphan farmgirl |
| harmonyfarm |
Posted - Aug 24 2010 : 08:40:59 AM
Laurie...what a heartfelt story. I went through saying goodbye to my dad two years ago. After I turned 14 our relationship went down the toilet to say the least. (I'm 53 now) He had never ever had any religious connections of any kind. I remember when he was sent to Hospice, every day I would say the prayer..."Lord, please have mercy on his soul"...well, the last time I saw him alive as I was leaving his room,he said, "I'll say a prayer for you." It was God's way of telling me that everything would be allright. I miss my dad.
Debbie
"If you can't find the time to do it right...how will you find the time to do it over" |
| CountryBorn |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 8:06:29 PM
Laurie, I'm sorry to hear that your Dad has passed. It is wonderful that he got to go at home the way he wanted. Also that he went so peacefully. I think the way he went and what he said for his final words will bring you great peace and comfort.
Hugs Mary Jane
There can be no happiness if the things we believe in are different from the things we do. Freya Stark |
| Cindy Lou |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 6:53:45 PM
Laurie, I am sorry for the passing of your father. I am thankful though that his death was at home as he wanted it to be and that you had the opportunity to care for him and help him through those doctors' appointments. I too am one of those people who try to "handle" difficult things on my own. I'm sure your faith has given you strength but never forget we farmgirls are here for each other. It is not a sign of weakness to talk to friends and let them help support you sometimes it is the best therapy to just talk it out.
Hugs,
Susan
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Mary Oliver |
| Lida |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 5:32:04 PM
Laurie,
Thank you for sharing your heart with us so that we could really be your sisters in your time of need. I am so sorry about the loss of your father. He is woven into the person you are so in a way he still is present with you. Hugs and prayers,
Lida |
| violetrose |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 4:33:51 PM
Laurie, My heart and prayers go out to you sweet sister! I have walked that road and it's not an easy one. Thankfully your Dad is with the Lord and is in no more pain, he has been made new! One day you will see him again.
Hugs and prayers, Ruth
Farmgirl Sister # 1738
God loves each one of us as if there were only one of us!
St. Augustine |
| staci860 |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 2:47:16 PM
Laurie, I'm so sorry to read of your dad's passing. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. You've been an example of courage, strength, and love. May God wrap His loving arms around you and your family at this difficult time and give you peace.
Blessings, staci FG# 973
Joshua 24:15 - ...choose this day whom you will serve,...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
|
| SusanScarlet |
Posted - Aug 21 2010 : 10:24:19 AM
Laurie - Thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Diane - thank you for sharing your Dad's final words. I'm sure you find comfort in knowing he was in a beautiful place. My Dad's final words when the EMTs asked him if he was in pain were, "No, I'm leaving now." I'm so glad to know that he experienced no pain and that he peacefully knew was going on his final journey. |
| HealingTouch |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 9:01:43 PM
Laurie...So sorry for your loss. Thank God he is sufferng no more. May Gods Peace and understanding guide you in this most difficult time. I'm here if you need me.Prayers and blessings to you and your family.
Blessings,
Darlene
Sister 1922
The road to a friends house is never to long! |
| Ninibini |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 8:43:50 PM
Oh, Laurie - I'm so sorry. May God be with you and your loved ones. And always remember: we're here for you, too. You are in my prayers. God bless you. Hugs, Nini
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
Farmgirl Sister #1974 |
| cheneygal |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 8:32:11 PM
Laurie, I am truly so sorry for the loss of your Dad. At least he isn't suffering or struggling, God took him at the right time to spare you any more heartbreak. My prayers are with you.
live, laugh, love |
| laurentany |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 7:45:50 PM
I want to thank each and everyone of you for your kind words. Unfortunately my dad passed away early this morning. I am thankful that he went to be with the Lord while resting comfortably in his own bed at home. This is what he wanted all along.
The timing of this is almost strange to me, because I normally do not pour my heart out in my posts, or should I say "get too deep" with my messages. I dont know why I hold back sometimes, but I do (probably because in my mind I think I can handle it all myself) I guess its my OCD that kicks in...LOL. Last night as I sat at the computer and made this post, it just felt as though it was the perfect remedy, a great place to "vent" my inside feelings. I guess it was God's way of leading me, and preparing me for what today would bring. I again want to say how Blessed and proud I am to be a part of this wonderful Farmgirl Sisterhood.
God's Blessing to each and every one of you!
In Grattitude,
Laurie
Farmgirl Sister#1403
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.. |
| Merry |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 10:16:35 AM
isn't it interesting that through the most awful of circumstances, we meet the best of people? I learned that when my mother was in hospice too. I always asked myself why at my age I was to experience this? Because I had, I have been able to give insight and support to many friends who are now or have experienced the same. Helps me realize its not all in vain. And yes, as bad as it was, always there was someone worse. I figured if I could open my eyes and take a breath in the morning, it was a day worthy of praise.
Merry
Farmgirl #536
http://afarminmyheart.blogspot.com/
Your life is an occasion, rise to it. Mr. Magorium |
| Lida |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 09:58:24 AM
Laurie,
Hugs and prayers to you. You are building wonderful memories of love with your dad. Your outlook is a blessing- to see the beauty in the people arond you as you go on this journey with your dad.
I echo the words of our farm sisters who have shared their stories with you- Hospice is an amazing place. I do a lot of hospice chaplain work and while it is challenging I love it. The people and families I serve are at the most vulnerable and sometimes fearful part of their lives.
Hugs and prayers.
Lida |
| TeresaJ25 |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 09:04:52 AM
Laurie
I'm so sorry that your Dad's health is failing. You are one of the strongest and bravest women I am so honored to know personally. Knowing what I know about you, it's your kindness towards others that brings kindness your way. When you treat others with love and respect, they will return to you. You are one of those women who's heart is so big, and generous. It saddens me that you are in so much pain, but I am here for you.
Diane-I love your father's last words. I'm sure it must give you some comfort to know that he is somewhere "beautiful".
Hugs to all of you.
~Teresa
Farmgirl Sister #1348
*Anyone can criticize and complain and predict doom and gloom.
Be the person who fills the room with sunshine! |
| craftbug |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 08:36:11 AM
Your story touched my heart and made it ache for my own dad, who's been gone now for a year and a half. There are wonderful people out there that God knows you need and who need you. You will be blessed and be a blessing for others going through the same thing. hugs
Make my words soft and tender, for I may have to eat them. :) |
| Montrose Girl |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 06:05:27 AM
Laurie, You have my thoughts for what you are enduring. What a nice story and a good reminder for all of us to treat other people with kindness and the attitude we would appreciate. Take care of yourself and hugs to your dad.
Laurie
Best Growing |
| Diane B Carter |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 05:46:30 AM
My dad also passed away from cancer this year. The people at Vet's hospital in Buffalo NY were wonderful. Except one Dr. who was in the ER when I brought my dad in. Dad grows a beard very quickly and he would not let mom shave him only I could and I was busy one day. The next day I went to the house to find him on the floor my mom in tears. I called the rescuse squad and 45 minutes later we got help. When I went in with Dad the ER MD gave me a dirty look, but Dad did look like a deshevled uncared for person. How-ever once they got his sugar level corrected Dad asked for me and told the doctor he was so glad to have his wife & I always there for him. He came home the same day and we had Hospice that was wonderful, a few weeks later when I got up at 1 am to give him his medicine, he squeezed my hand tightly and said "Its so beautiful" and took a few more breaths and left.
I will always be thankful for the wonderful life my Dad gave me and for being able to take care of him when he needed me most.
It is so hard, but worth it. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Hope all your days are Sunnydays.
dianebcarterhotmailcom.blogspot.com |
| ceejay48 |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 05:15:41 AM
Laurie,
Thanks for your story . . . it is encouraging to know there ARE very caring people out there to help you along the journey. I went through a VERY similiar time with my mom who had a type of leukemia which took her life . . . about 6 years of agonizing decline in her health. We did have Hospice at the end and that WAS the BEST thing for her and for us. They were there for the family as well . . . and I am grateful we had Hospice involved. My mom has been gone 16 1/2 years now . . . but I miss her SOOOOOOOOOOO!
I will be praying for you as you "travel" this road . . .it's a hard one!
GOD BLESS YOU!!
CJ
..from the barefoot farmgirl in SW Colorado...sister chick #665
From my Heart - www.fromacelticheart.blogspot.com
From my Hands - www.cjscreations-ceejay.blogspot.com
From my Hubby - www.aspenforge.blogspot.com |
| HealingTouch |
Posted - Aug 20 2010 : 12:35:21 AM
Laurie...Bless your heart. This is such a dificult time. Your poor father...it breaks my heart for you all. I am a nurse and have ben there with many patients and their families as the journey ends. Suzie is right about hospice. Everyone gets so upset when they hear the word. Please know that is the best thing to do for all of you. The care given is to keep the patient as comfortable and peaceful and pain free as possible. I know because I've done it. Ask for that service it will be a blessing to him and you. You all are in my prayers.
Suzie...I'm sorry for your loss. Prayers for you also. We are so lucky to have this forum to encourage and love one another.
Blessings and Hugs,
Darlene
Sister 1922
The road to a friends house is never to long! |
| Ninibini |
Posted - Aug 19 2010 : 10:03:13 PM
God bless you, Laurie. God bless your Dad, all those who love him, and all the wonderful caregivers and support workers surrounding you. It's amazing how the worst of circumstances often reveal to us the depth and beauty of love. Thank you for reminding us all to embrace each moment as a precious gift. Susan's right - you are an inspiration. Bless your heart. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs and love - Nini
God gave us two hands... one to help ourselves, and one to help others!
Farmgirl Sister #1974 |
| cheneygal |
Posted - Aug 19 2010 : 9:34:27 PM
I went through this same thing last summer with my DH. I cannot give enough credit to all the dr.'s, nurses, etc. in the offices and hospitals, they give 24 hrs. a day, and still are amazing. It was interesting to me also, how many different people you meet, from so many walks of life, at first I was a little put off by others asking about Pete's health, prognosis, etc., but soon realized we were all going through the same thing, and we were so much comfort to each other. The days can be long, and exhausting, we went through many transfusions, and many nights of getting home late. We always found something positive in those trips home, whether it was the brilliant full moon, a sky full of stars, or how warm it was, and how it actually felt good after freezing in the hospital all day long!! You mentioned Hospice, we called them in on Sept. 25th., I have always associated Hospice with death, but I have never encountered a more caring, giving, concerned group of people in my life, from the nurse, social workers, right down to the bath aides. Peace be with you, enjoy every moment you can with your Dad, and know that each and every one of your farmgirl friends are here for you, everyday.
live, laugh, love |
| Cindy Lou |
Posted - Aug 19 2010 : 9:33:48 PM
Laurie, you are an inspiration. In spite of your father's illness you are seeing the blessings around you: each day you still have your dad, and the kindness of people around you. Some people are so focused on their own pain and loss that they do not even see what is going on around them. The fact that you could deal with the man in the booth without blubbering tears or screaming rage and actually see humor in it, at least later, shows that you are accepting God's help through this difficult time. Prayers are with you, as well as the virtual hugs of your farmgirl sisters.
Susan
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Mary Oliver |
| Lin |
Posted - Aug 19 2010 : 9:20:03 PM
Laurie, thank you for sharing your heartwrenching story. I'm sorry you're losing your dad. But you are seeing life from a whole new perspective and sometimes we need that to help us enrich our own lives. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and that I'm so happy you're one of my Farmgirl Sisters! Hugs and Prayers, Lin
"Our beautiful earth is worth saving"!! |
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