My mom died today. [View all]

We drove down to be with her for her last 90 minutes. All we could do was stroke her hair.

She made it to 100 and one month exactly. We had a family party on Saturday despite her being jaundiced and in some pain, she really wanted us to celebrate with her.. Her health deteriorated quickly the past few months. They discovered a tumor in her Liver 2 weeks ago. She had gallbladder issues in September. Falls led to a fractured foot. And finally this week a 2nd mini stroke.

My youngest brother has been her caregiver. I feel for him. He tries to find humor in everything. This past week was hard on him and my sister, who has been staying with them. All five of her kids (I'm the oldest) were there. I finally understand what is meant by person passes peacefully with their family around them. Morphine drops made that possible. We were there for her last breath.