Joelle

I am sorry about what's going on in your life right now. I understand about the problems of moving into a community and not having family and the difficulties of making friends when you don't have anything in common...it's tough! It's work and when you have health issues like you do...you just don't have the energy ...

You have the support here, you know that.

Thanks, Cherie. I was just about to tell Joelle about this......And for the Link..

(((((((((((((((((((((((Joelle and Family)))))))))))))))))))))))))

Joelle

I'm so sorry that all this is happening to you and your family - seems like you have taken one hit after the other. I so wish I lived closer to you so I could do something to help - even if it's just to offer a shoulder to cry on. But...you know I'm just a phone call away.

I know it seems like you're being spread mighty thin these days - and having the one person you counted on for so much out of play for the time being has got to be very difficult. Please be kind to yourself - and take the time to rest and take care of yourself, too. Housework will wait (I know...mine still is!) and the boys are old enough to help with that and with things like grocery shopping and meal prep.

You know your family is in my prayers every day - and I say a special one for you. Call me anytime - you know I'm usually always here and usually always awake !

Man, Joelle...is there a button or a brass ring nearby on this merry-go-round that you are on? If so, push the button, or pull the ring and stop the ride for a few days!! You need a break!

Joelle,

I just wanted to let you know that I am also thinking about you and hoping that you all get a break soon. As everyone has said, try to take some time for yourself even if it is just a half hour.

Take care,

Barb

Joelle, Sorry to hear about the full plate. I've had years like that where you feel like screaming "stop the ride, I want to get off!!".

Know we're here for ya as best we can. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family going out.

I called my mom at the hospita yesterday morning. She's decided to halt all treatments. She has fluid in her lungs and around her heart, a c-diff infection, massive sweling in her legs, and a lot of pain. I totally support her decision as do the rest of the family. I'm still a 1000 miles away from her because I have to be here for my dh and drive my son to the gastro tomorrow. I'm really scared that I won't get to see my mom again. I wish I had known before I left Pittsburgh that it would probably have been the last time we'd be together. I'm very worried about my dad. They've been married for 44 years. I can tell over the phone how despondent he is, which is perfectly natural. I wish I could be there for him too. OMG this is just so surreal to me. I feel like a mouse on one of those stupid wheels. Running in place and getting nowhere fast. Sorry agan guys. I hope to be back to my silly self some day .

Joelle I'm so sorry to hear about your Mom's latest problems...I know how hard it must be to be far away and not be able to visit whenever you'd like to. Sounds like you're being pulled in umpteen different directions and it's totally understandable to feel overwhelmed and stressed. One suggestion for your Dad (and you, too) is to go ahead and contact Hospice. They can be of so much help to ya'll long before you're ever to the point of needing them for other services. They are truly a blessing and helped me out immeasurably when my Dad was sick. I was the primary caregiver for him and they are available for the whole family - not just the ill person.

How's Tim doing? Any better? I hope he's getting stronger each day and can be of some help to you before too long.

You're due for a break and I've been praying for you and your family each and every day. Call me if you need to talk - I've not wanted to bother you 'cause I know you have precious little time to rest. I'm glad to see you posting again......

Don't be sorry, J, it's better to process those emotions than to let them fester under some "social norm". You're only human, give yourself a break.

I'm so sorry for all that your mom is enduring, it's unbelievably difficult even when you are right there. I was, and I felt much of what you describe.

You've done all that is in your power to do for her and your dad, that says a lot.

Joelle no need to apologize! I am so sorry for everything you are going through! Just know that you and your whole family are in my thoughts. I pray for strength for all of you during this difficult time! It must be difficult not being there for mom and dad. Take care of yourself too!