February 20, 2015--the day she finally got to be "her" again.
She had a long four and a half years of living in a nursing facility, no longer able to care for herself. She could no longer form the words she so badly wanted to say, she could no longer walk her steady walk. But her body was strong...so, so strong....even after all that time. Hard work your whole life does a body good! And she never lost the ability to remember we were important to her...thank GOD for that. Her last week of life was painfully, horrifyingly long for those of us who sat by her side. It was torture watching her body and soul prepare to leave this earth. If you've ever prayed and pleaded for God to come take someone home...it will change you. But when that moment finally arrived, it still didn't hurt any less. I was so fortunate to get to spend many hours just sitting with her in her last days. A woman far too young for a debilitating and devastating illness, spent many years in a stranger's body. It isn't fair. But illness doesn't discriminate...and we aren't immune to heartbreak. The day of her funeral, there was fresh snow on the ground. But these firemen...they worked for hours clearing the church steps and walk. They saluted their fallen sister. What an honor to be from Comanche County...where people are still full of love.
Her casket was handmade by local friends, crafted to perfection. Our very good friend told everyone about her life...her cowboys carried her to her final resting place. I think she would've loved her day.
I am forever grateful for my time with her, my memories with her, and my opportunity to take care of her. My heart is forever changed.
((HUG)) This is so beautiful, Megan.
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