September 11
He kept on going and giving the nurses fits and starts. They thought he should have been 'gone' last week, but since he has always been known as a tough ol' buzzard...he kept on keeping on.
What I mean is. He kept 'hanging' in there when they didn't think it was humanly possible.
Today was his day.
It is an act of love to tend to a dying person. It isn't scary. It isn't awful.
I washed his face and other parts. I massaged his legs that were shaking and spoke quietly to him about how he needed to gather up Fred and Badger [mules that we nearly always rode together in years past] and have them saddled when I got back to him on the other side.
I told him how much he meant to me. How much I loved him. How he made my life more meaningful. That I wasn't letting him get away with just leaving me as I'd find him in the afterlife and we'd be together again.
Eventually the body systems shut slowly down and the breathing got very calm and then paused and then started ... and then paused. And he became so peaceful looking as I held his hand.
And there it was.
He reached the end of his Long Road.
Beautiful end. You both did so well. Yes, tending to him at the end is a great privilege. I was so glad to be there for my late husband, last voice he heard, to close his eyes and thank him.
ReplyDeleteTake care of you now. You've done wonderful work and you need to recover.
Oh my dear. You’ve made me a little weepy. I found this so touching. Hugs from Canada.
ReplyDeleteYou loved and cared fiercely. You were his advocate to the end. I pray for peace and comfort in your grief. I’ve not walked where you’ve walked the last several years, yet, but I pray I handle my caregiver role with grace and compassion as you have done for Rich. Take care of yourself now my friend. RHill, TX
ReplyDeleteYes, a beautiful end. I have taken care of dying people but not someone close to me. He will be waiting for you with the mules saddled up. Take care, Val.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift you gave him. You allowed him to pass from this life peacefully at home and gave him the hope of the future in heaven wit his beloved wife and mules. Prayers for you as you navigate this time.
ReplyDeleteI am happy for Rich that his struggle is over but I am so sad for you as I know how very much you will miss him. My sympathy to you and all who loved Rich even Charlie. Val you did good taking care of Rich as he wanted, be kind to yourself now and get some well deserved rest.
ReplyDeleteWhat beautiful caring true love you shared together. Take good care.
ReplyDeleteYou are a beautiful person, Val.
ReplyDeleteI so agree with everything that has been said by those who have responded to yet another very touching post. The video and photos of Rich will leave all of us with good memories. Do rest now. And please accept hugs for you and Charlie, Lori. xoxoxoxox
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