This will be a short post as my mind is filled with dying. My mother-in-law (MIL) had a very serious infection, that if it had been untreated for another couple of days, she may have died. The day she left the hospital, my father-in-law (FIL) was admitted. My FIL has had dementia for a number of years and his body has decided it is time for him to leave mortality. He has comfort care while his wife stays in a skilled nursing facility a few miles away from him. It seems surreal. I pictured this time coming and because of my experiences with my husband and mother, I have peace.
I think back how 22 months ago today, my husband had his strokes, leading to his death ten days later. I think of my FIL gradually leaving mortality and whether my husband is there with him. I think of my MIL and wonder how I can help her as she is about to embark on an all-too-familiar-to-me journey.
While in a way it seems deja vu, I know each experience with death is unique. I hope I can be of help.
