Dad's 14 year battle with Alzhheimers ended on May 27. It is somewhat a relief to know he no longer has those daily struggles.

Bob was a WWII Navy veteran who's ship sailed from Pearl Harbor, the night before they were attacked, escorting a aircraft carrier out to sea. He served on 6 ships during his 11 year career, 4 of which were sunk after he transfered off. How lucky he was!

We had a Naval Honor Guard at his memorial service. It was something I'll never forget.

He was a hard working man, loving husband and father, grandfather and great grandfather with a fanastic sense of humor and a good natured personality.

I know people say it is a blessing when they pass but believe me, the longer you have them with you, the harder it is to let them go.

I haven't been on the boards for awhile as life just had me on the run all the time; as well as Dad! But I want to thank those of you that took the time to answer my posts and my questions. Every bit of information helped us.

I miss him so much but thank God he gave him to us for 91 years.

~ Robin

Robindg, sorry to hear about your dad. HUGS

Thank you, Moms. That helped a lot. /big warm hug

Robin

quote:

I find myself taking notice of my body and feeling everything is tight. I make a conscience effort to relax my body and I can tell that I've been clenching my shoulders, arms and even my legs. Sometimes I'm short tempered or lose patience; usually with people I don't know. It's a weird feeling. Then of course, there are days when I have the "blues" all day.

A few days after Mom died, I noticed my legs were hurting and it felt like I had shin splints! I realized that with all the phone calls, nervous energy, etc., I had been pacing like a caged tiger and literally had worn my legs out! WHO KNEW!!! No one told me that grieving included SHIN SPLINTS ferchrissakes!!!!!!!

Seriously, Robin, take it slow and easy. There truly is little that *must* be done right dang away. You have had to shoulder incredible personal responsibility for quite a while on your Dad's behalf and this time is especially hard on caregivers.

The blues, irritation with idiots, thousand-yard-stare and brain fog all are normal responses after we suffer a loss. Be patient with yourself during the next year or so... a little self-indulgence and an extra helping of personal kindness are often appreciated.

BREATHE!!!! You did not travel to this point in the road in one day and you will not get back into the swing of things quickly either. One day at a time.

It DOES get better, but you'll still get caught short after months and even years. I watched the movie, "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" tonight and just bawled at the end. There was something about it that reminded me so much of caring for Mom... sigh...

Caring for the caregiver doesn't stop when our duties end... we're here for the recovery part as well. New members or senior ones - we all are walking the same path and trying to get back on track eventually. {{{HUGS}}}

Hi all,

My computer has been down 2 weeks; finally it's up and I wanted to thank you all for your kind words and support.

The aftermath is a bit stressful with all of the paperwork to take care of. I find myself taking notice of my body and feeling everything is tight. I make a conscience effort to relax my body and I can tell that I've been clenching my shoulders, arms and even my legs. Sometimes I'm short tempered or lose patience; usually with people I don't know. It's a weird feeling. Then of course, there are days when I have the "blues" all day.

Does this sound familiar to anyone? I'm hoping this will all ease with time.

Again, thank you all. You Senior Members are a blessing to everyone that posts.

Robin

That "last journey" is hard on everyone.
Take comfort in knowing that you were there making the road easier for him.
Having Military Honors at a funeral is something special. You can't help but feel proud that even after all the time that has passed since his active service days, our Country still honors its fallen heros.

Robindg, I totally know how you feel!! My heart soars that your dad has been released from his prison. Unfortunately, the road back for us is quite a rocky hike. Please be good to yourself and give yourself time and patience to get through the next months to come. Losing someone for whom you were caregiving is a huge loss that takes a lot of time to switch gears and get back on track. I hope you will continue updating us on how you are doing! {{{{HUGS}}}}

Ronindg, sorry for your loss.WE KNOW THEY ARE AT PEACE BUT THE WAR WITHIN US IS JUST BEGINNING.
Thank god we had time wit them that gave us memories that ca never be take away.

quote:

I miss him so much but thank God he gave him to us for 91 years.

How beautifully put!

My condolences to you and your family.

Hello Robin. My deepest condolences to you and your family. When my Dad left this world, it was a shock even though he was in hospice. I was always ready for it to be tomorrow, but it wasn't ever supposed to be today.... And then it was.

Sounds like your father has left behind some mighty big shoes for someone to fill. I am grateful for his service to our country. I honor him now.