Community Chat

[thalmy]

I'm using this forum because some are familiar with me. For those who are, this time I'm asking for a peaceful passing over for my dad.

For the eighth time this year he was admitted to the hospital Monday morning. He's in ICU on a respirator, lots of IV's and the usual ICU equipment.

He's been failing for a long time now and has had junk for quality of life. His kidneys have all but shut down and dialysis seems just cruel. He is in congestive heart failure and has two infections. The only reason he has a blood pressure at all is because of a medication forcing it.

The staff spoke with my brother and me today. The plan is to give him another couple of days to see if he bounces back. If not, taking him off the respirator and letting him breath on his own until nature takes it's course. Of course he'll be kept comfortable.

To put it mildly, my dad is a feisty old dude. 94 the 23rd of this month. Having worked in hospice I know what to expect. I seen people fight to the end and have a miserable passing. I've seen those who accept and let go. They have a beautiful passing. That's my wish/hope for my dad. So, I'm asking for prayer and positive thoughts and energy directed at Henry L. God will know who you mean.

A little FYI. Even though I knew this day was coming for some time. After today's conversation, I'm experiencing anticipatory grief. We all do eventually with somebody we care for. It's that sick, sad, slightly empty feeling in the pit of your stomach. I'm sure it will be better once he's not suffering anymore.