Words are hard to come by in circumstances such as this. Emotions override our ability to think clearly.
Ten years ago, our mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's.
It did not come as a surprise as we had recognised the early signs. At the time, we had little understanding of the condition other than it entailed progressive memory loss. What unfolded over the next decade was far worse than we ever could have imagined.
Alzheimer's is a cruel disease. It robbed our mother of something she held very dear: Her autonomy. For an independent woman nothing could be worse than the loss of Self. Thankfully, her torturous journey is at an end.
Our mother believed in an afterlife where she would be reunited with her parents, siblings and husband. This was a source of great comfort and relief in her darkest moment. The Afterlife has a powerful attraction materialist ideologies lack. No man-made utopias can compete with it.
There are simply too many people to thank for their support and solidarity during what was a very difficult week for our family. Everyone that called to the house received the same welcome and courtesy. As for the grandchildren, they were overwhelmed by the volume of visitors. It dawned on them that granny was someone very special.
An unlimited amount of quality food was supplied by local businesses and close family friends. At times, it was more like a community event than a wake. We will never forget their kindness.
Finally, I want to thank those who cared for our mother in a professional capacity. They made it possible for us to keep her at home until the end. We owe the careers, nurses and doctors a debt of gratitude.
When I awoke yesterday morning, the world had a different feel to it. The rock upon which stood our family stood is gone. Life will never be the same . . . Sin é.
Alzheimer's is a cruel disease. It robbed our mother of something she held very dear: Her autonomy. For an independent woman nothing could be worse than the loss of Self. Thankfully, her torturous journey is at an end.
Our mother believed in an afterlife where she would be reunited with her parents, siblings and husband. This was a source of great comfort and relief in her darkest moment. The Afterlife has a powerful attraction materialist ideologies lack. No man-made utopias can compete with it.
There are simply too many people to thank for their support and solidarity during what was a very difficult week for our family. Everyone that called to the house received the same welcome and courtesy. As for the grandchildren, they were overwhelmed by the volume of visitors. It dawned on them that granny was someone very special.
An unlimited amount of quality food was supplied by local businesses and close family friends. At times, it was more like a community event than a wake. We will never forget their kindness.
Finally, I want to thank those who cared for our mother in a professional capacity. They made it possible for us to keep her at home until the end. We owe the careers, nurses and doctors a debt of gratitude.
When I awoke yesterday morning, the world had a different feel to it. The rock upon which stood our family stood is gone. Life will never be the same . . . Sin é.
My condolences to you and your family, Alex.
ReplyDeleteA great loss to you Alex. I knew how close you were to her and how you dreaded the moment arriving.
ReplyDeleteCondolences to you and your family, Alex. The last ten years must have been horrendous for you.
ReplyDeleteAlex your dear mother was both a rock and broad shoulder to the women of Belfast. A strong feminist and Republican,her work spearheading the running of the Falls Womens Centre offered support,education and solace to so many families. My own included.Maura is a true hero
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