I have had some time to read so many comments and pictures, its been wonderful. As i was cleaning up, as usual there are many thoughts and memories.
Kyle, my wonderful son has been a little overlooked. In football he was the quiet assassin. He played OLB (laser/ razor in coach Coury's skeam) and he would hit you hard and early and let the opposing team know, if you come to my side there will be consequences. through all the last couple years that was Kyle. He is quiet and yet VERY observant. He has feeling and care, and he we protect you in a moments notice.
Margaret was hospitalized about a month before she passed. Her liver had shut down and she got really sick. Her oncologist told us to GET HER TO THE HOSPITAL ER AND I WILL HAVE ORDERS WHEN YOU ARRIVE. We knew it was serious. With the liver shutting down, she was releasing toxic gas that was effecting .. everything. She was delirious mentally (didnt know what day or month it was etc) and her vitals - not good. The ER doctor ran many tests.
At the end of the day, he told us both in the tiny ER room that Margaret's prognoses was not good. Margaret, i could read .. thought crap, we are spending the night.. in reality, what the Dr was saying was much more serious.
Doc pulled me aside when Margaret was napping and asked he if I understood what he had described and what he was indicating. I said yes, but this is like a bad dream, ( we have always dodged bullets and ended up on our feet) tell me again. He told me that the hospital will try to stabilize her with meds, but there is only so much they could do at this point. I didnt believe him and called OHSU oncologist and he confirmed.
After several (3) days at the hospital, which Margaret could not accept, she demanded we go home.. and that she could self heal at home. Dr's agreed, highly recommending hospice assistance. Thank god, Margaret was released.
In the meanwhile the kids and i took turns caring for Margaret 7x24. Finally the catheter was installed and she was released do go home.
Kyle was there at the house waiting. He took complete charge. NO DOGS upstairs. All visitors must wear masks. As you enter the room their was sanitizer and it was mandatory. He had anti bacteria the upstairs and specifically the bed room. The linens had been replaced with clean.
He had candles and pictures arranged ... and on and on. The thought and effort that took place while he was home prior to Moms arrival was astonishing. I honestly had no idea he had this special gift, strength and power. There was more, but i think you get the idea. He was always there for her. In the morning - hey mom, can i get you something. At night, same followed by I love you.
The quiet assassin was working his magic. The doctors gave us 2-3 days to
2 weeks upon her departure from the hospital. Margaret lived for 2 months after being released from the Dr.
Kyle had a lot to do with that and he has never said a word.
He was there when she arrived at the house and with me when she passed.
He is my friend, buddy and protector