LifePart2

My mom passed away at about 12:40 p.m. (ET) on Friday, March 20, the first day of Spring 2009. The past 3 weeks have been a roller coaster of emotions. When her children gathered at her side, Mom rallied.

When she was doing well, I went to Washington, DC for 3 days to check in with my surgeon & new internist (the internist who discovered my tumor retired on Dec 31). All's well, no problems, I'll check in again the next time we're in the States.

Also, since Mom was doing quite well, my siblings (there are 7 of us in total) decided to leave as well. My next older sister had to get back to work. My oldest brother had to return to Florida; Michigan cold is hard on his health (he's 73). When I returned from DC, my two oldest sisters decided it was time for them to go back to Florida to fulfill some commitments and to collect the things they'd left there when they had rushed to Mom's side.

My 2nd brother Harv & his wife Margaret had returned from their Winter stay in Texas with the intent of staying in Michigan for the Spring & Summer. I decided to stay longer so that my sisters could take care of their affairs in Florida. Harv & I were supported by my dedicated nieces and nephews, especailly my oldest niece Marcia. My siblings called every day.

The week of March 16, Mom deteriorated rapidly. She slept most of Tuesday and Wednesday. But she had an "awakening" on Wednesday eveing & commented that she had lost a whole day. On Thursday March 19 she was lucid and spoke clearly. She spoke with every one of her children. Mom knew that she was loved and that all her children were with her to the very end.

Friday morning, she was "gurgling"; the nurse told us it would not be long. So, brother Harv & I stayed by her side and held her hands until she fell into a deep sleep. I read some Bible passages: various Psalms, John 1, and the Gospel accounts of the Resurrection. We know she heard the passages.

At 12:30 p.m. I kissed her good-bye and left to have lunch with Bill's nephew Bryan and his family. Not more than 10 minutes later, Harv noticed that Mom was no longer breathing. She went Home and joined my father and sister in Glory. As the song says, "until we meet again"!

Due to siblings' travel schedules the funderal is scheduled for Saturday March 28. Since we are somewhat scattered, this week gives us time to morn together. I expect to return to Kinshasa on Sunday March 29, arriving on March 30.

I thank God for my wonderful family. I also am thankful for the support and comfort I've received from my friends. If you feel moved to make a donation in memory of my Mom, I urge you to consider www.StandProud.org, which helps handicapped children in the Congo. It's a 501(c)(3) and you can donate online.

Thank you to all

Linda