April 9th mom was rushed into emergency surgery with a perforated bowel. After a 3 hour surgery she spent time in the Simcoe General Hospital recovering. So far it has been a long, hard recovery process for her. She was finally able to leave the hospital and go into Cedarland Garden nursing home where she is currently receiving excellent care. She is still battling some infections, bad reactions to some of her medication and now gall stones. This woman just can't seem to catch a break!!!
Meanwhile back on the Martin homestead my dad was left on his own. At 86 years old he is still very sharp in many ways but does have bouts of forgetfulness which didn't leave him the option of living at the house on his own. I spent a couple of weeks with him discussing mom's situation and the prospect of him moving to Leisure Living where he has lots of friends. Of course this decision didn't come easily for dad, he didn't know what would happen to the house or what mom's long term prognosis would be. After the better part of the two weeks, lots of talking and a visit to Leisure Living he decided it would be best for him to move.
I can't imagine the loneliness and worry both mom and dad have at this point. After being married for 60 years to now be separated, living in different towns must weigh heavy on their hearts. I know dad wishes mom was living with him to take care of him and I'm sure mom wishes she was well enough to do that but as we have discovered, life happens and your life can change in an instant. You just never know.
So once again I have lessons to learn from my parents. I watched them struggle while I was there and now that I am home I continue to call them every other day or so to check in. Even though their worlds have been turned upside down both of them still have their senses of humor and never fail to ask how everyone else is doing. They really are selfless when it comes to their family.
I must also give them credit for the family they have raised. My oldest sister is basically on her own taking care of both mom and dad, making sure their medical and financial needs are met. She has a loving family of her own that have her back and us four brothers and sisters that appreciate her dedication and we help out when whenever possible.
I am looking forward to returning to Ontario on June 19th to celebrate mom's 80th birthday on the 20th. I hope and pray that she will have regained some strength by then but we will meet her wherever she is to help her ring in this milestone.
In closing I will just say, kids...be good to your parents, visit them, call them and show them you care. You just never know....
