Update 2 on Aunt May

Aunt May is still hanging on. She is failing though. The nurses didn't think she would live until this morning, but she made it. She hasn't eaten anything since I fed her some applesauce on Sunday night, nor has she drank. She is badly dehydrated, but resting comfortably most of the time.

They have taken her off the morphine, as she was having hallucinations. They are giving her a potent drug (can't remember the name) that doesn't have those types of side effects. She gets a pain shot every four hours but the nurse told us she can administer it an hour either way. So if she is in pain, it can be given every three hours and if she is asleep and comfortable, they can wait for five.

The nurses on pallative care are so sweet. They tell us what is happening with her and talk to her when they go to her bed and tell her exactly what they are going to do. When the nurse gave her the pain shot, it made her uncomfortable for a few moments, but then she drifted off to sleep.

When I picked the boys up from school on Monday, Brandon wanted to know if Aunt May had passed. I told him no, she is resting comfortably. He said, "Boy, she must be a strong lady." I told him yes, she is and she always has been. When she got knocked down, she got right back up and kept going. Then I explained that this is a great way to go through life. Never give up and when something happens, just keep on trying. A great lesson for him and he is amazed. He asked me to tell her what he said and I did. She acknowledged by a tiny smile.

She knows we are in the room and she knows when we speak to her. However, she isn't talking at all and just flutters her eyes or gives a tiny smile when we talk to her. We've all said our goodbyes and told her that it's okay for her to go. Some people need to know it's okay to pass.

What great lessons Aunt May has taught me in life. I will certainly miss her phone calls and the fun we had together, but can't wish her to stay and suffer. I told her today to shut her eye and rest easy in Jesus' arms. She gave a tiny sigh and drifted back to sleep.

My apologies to those who have sent cards. I just haven't had time to be online much. I have 25 cards now that will be forwarded to my soldier for the Christmas card shower. I have taken photos but won't be posting them until I have more time. Thank you also to those who are particpating in the Christmas book swap.

I will post about Aunt May as time permits and will get the cards off when I can. Anyone who wishes to can still send a card. I will be sending out a second mailing later.

Thank you for all the loving comments and support as our family goes through the difficult process of saying goodbye to Aunt May. Each sentiment is greatly appreciated. ~Blessings, Mary~