Stranger in My Room

one of my last days with mother

“This makes two, come on and give me one more bite. You can do it and it smells so good, one more bite and I’ll leave you be till dinner.” Tone in check and a big smile, holds a fork full of catfish but her shaking head says no, so I grab the chicken broth and hope for a sip. 

I give her the cup and for now, she complies.  I’ve never felt so happy for so little. Yesterday we ate nothing, and today two bites at breakfast and again two at lunch. 

“Momma, the transport lady is here we have to go downstairs.”

Again, she shakes her head and pleads with me “you know” is all she says.

“Yes, I know and we’ll do it together,” I smile though my nature is to cry, but I only have smiles for mother. “Okay?” I quickly help the lady roll her up in her sheet, and we easily move her upon the gurney.  

We enter the elevator down south hall and go to the 3^rd floor and then take the adjacent elevator to radiation.

Wild eyes look may way and in a panic, she cries out “Who are you, I don’t know you! Who are you?”  This has never happened before, as I smile.

“you're my mother; my name is Cherrie, and we are waiting for the nurse.” I use the softest tone I possess as I push the help button.  

“We are a little confused and upset today can we have a sedative before the treatment?” I ask the nurse even though my tone was more of a command.

“I’ll check and be right back.” Nurse Mary knows us well we’ve been here every day and will be for 22 days. She gives mother a shot and the sedative takes hold, she begins to cry,  as both worlds meet for a brief moment “I didn’t know you,   I didn't know,   I didn't.”

“Shh, just rest, its okay. I love you, and it will be alright.” I rub her forehead and sleep comes quickly until the treatment begins, and then we wait for the chills and the dry heaves to begin.  

Reviews

[Cherrie Palmer]

In the beginning I thought I might share this final journey but the experience was just to close to my heart.

[Onlyme]

This is so sad, touching, tender and sweet. Our parents mean so much to us. And in their ours of needs and upsets. We try to be strong and tender and have a soft touch of comfort and loving words. When inside and out we just want to cry.

[Cherrie Palmer]

The news was a brief shock. Then a God's grace gave me an inner strength. It felt like one long day that lasted about 62 days.

[Onlyme]

I am so sorry to here this Cherrie, I am greatful to hear you had 62 days to share with your mother and give her all the love, compassion and understanding she needed and you too at that. I know it was far from easy for you both. But particularly you Cherrie. You have a beautiful heart. hugs Dawn.

[Cherrie Palmer]

When I was a girl my dad died at work alone and being able to be there for my mother was so important to me.

[Onlyme]

You have not had it easy Cherrie, you are a remarkable, lovely, kind, honest and caring lady. I am so sorry for what happened to your Dad too. But both are looking down at you. Knowing they have a great daughter with a glorious heart and soul. Who did all she could to show them both you loved them deeply. And obviously still do.

[Cherrie Palmer]

Thank you, Dawn.

[Onlyme]

Cherrie you are a true sweetheart, modest, kind and so lovely. Wish I could give you a big cuddle. Dawn. and your so welcome. Be good to you Cherrie.

[Nimbus Thread]

Our parents are are heart breaks in time. This is a tender moment that is universal and it struck me. Thank you for sharing it.

[Cherrie Palmer]

thank you Nimbus

[Derek Cummings]

I found your story easy to read and touching. Are you going to expand this story into a longer version? I can see it.
Thanks for sharing!

[Cherrie Palmer]

I don't think I can