Final Trip

grandmafay
grandmafay Member Posts: 1,633 Member
edited March 2014 in Caregivers #1
My husband and I took our final trip to Yosemite Wednesday. We stayed in the Ahwahnee Hotel for two nights. On our trip home from the dr.'s appointment when he told us that there was nothing more they could do, I asked my husband if there was anything he wanted to do. He told me he had always wanted to go the the Ahwahnee Hotel so I made reservations. We probably should have gone sooner because he slept most of the time. He is using a wheelchair most of the time and is on oxygen. Yosemite was beautiful, though. We had a nice corner room and the view was incredible. A member of our church told the congregation we were going and why. She had a little bucket and said people could donate to my husbands "Bucket List." That was a nice surprise. We even had room service one night. It was a bittersweet trip for both of us. It's was hard knowing that this was our final trip together. The drive was just too difficult for him.

I'm writing this for two reasons. I needed to get my feelings out, but I also wanted to encourage others to ask your loved ones if there is anything they want to do. We've been married for 42 years, and I don't ever remember him saying he wanted to stay at the Ahwahnee. I guess he just always thought it was too expensive, which it is. But it was important for us to do it. It's one more memory. I hope to take my children and grandchildren there some day. We have also had visits from some out of state friends. That was very special. We continue to celebrate each day, but it's getting harder. Our older son called me twice yesterday. Both sons are very supportive, and that helps.

I called Hospice this morning. My husband is on Hospice, but we haven't asked for very much help yet. I asked for a hospital bed today. My husband has been sleeping in a chair and thought he wanted to stay there. I finally got him to agree to the hospital bed. I also needed to talk to someone. The on call nurse was very helpful. He is arranging for a bed and extra oxygen. He hopes they can deliver it today, but it might not happen until Monday. The place it comes from is a couple of hours away.

Boy did I get wordy, again. Sorry guys. It has been a tough couple of days. Fay

Comments

  • SonSon
    SonSon Member Posts: 174
    #2
    last wishes...
    I am so glad that you arranged that trip. What a loving act.
    My mother-in-law kept craving various foods - so for a couple weeks my kitchen became Fatima's Special Order Cafe. She enjoyed it while she was still eating.
    I wish you many wonderful moments.
    Fatima
  • cowman
    cowman Member Posts: 61
    #3
    Bittersweet
    Fay,

    Very touching post; I am glad you shared it even though it brought tears to my eyes. I just wanted to let you know I am sharing your sadness. I am always amazed how we can be touched by people we don't know or have never seen but it sure happens. Let your boys help as much as you can even if just emotionally.
    What a thoughtful gift from your church. This experience sure brings to light some of the things that we do or don't do for people who are ill.
    I had a nurse when I was very small and in the hospital - her name was Fay - and I will never forget that name or her special treatment to me. Fay, my prayers are with you and your husband for strength and calm during this time. Keep sharing here if you feel like it.
    Diane

Discussion Boards