Replies to 'Overcoming Grief'

 
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June 30, 2008, 11:09 am PDT

Overcoming Grief

Quote From: hurtandheal

My grandmother who was like my mum, passed away from Parkinson's disease almost 5 years ago.  My aunts, uncles and other family members were not very supportive.  One of them asked me to tell her it is ok to let go, others talked about calling the funeral home while she was dying, others were discussing redocorating their kitchen.  I had to make the tough calls, stopping the forced feeding (which is when they shove food down your throat and hope you can swallow it, if not they suction it out of your lungs).  My grandma had a DNR and a No Extraordinary Measures order.  I was the closest to her, was raised by her, and the rest of them thought because I loved her most I should make the decisions.  The staff explained I wasn't extending her life, I was delaying her death by allowing her to go through this for so long.  My family recently admitted they resent my decision and that she could have lived a few more months (tortured 3-5 times a day).  She was in agony, suffering, I couldn't do it.  I did everything possible, I was the one who sat there and had to refuse the force feedings for two weeks (from morning to night), clean her mouth of blood from when they did do it and her lips and tongue bled.  I did feed her ice chips, we tried popcycles, and other things, but she just choked on it because she could no longer swollow. 

 

I sat in her bed with her, read to her, did her nails and hair, rubbed her down with lotion and did everything I could, but it wasn't enough.  I lived 900 miles away and saw her more than anyone else in my family, who all live within 20 minutes.  The staff at her nursing home were true Angels, they prayed for me the day grandma passed that I would be ok and that it would be quick. 

 

My question is now what?  I'll always doubt my actions, feel orphaned by my own family and never be forgiven.  Any advice or someone who has a similar story?

It is clear that your grandmother was very special to you which is why it is easy to second guess yourself. Wondering if you did the right thing is a normal response when you are grieving. The question is answered, however, with the DNR. Her body was already shutting down which is why she couldn't tolerate food.

 

As far as the relatives, the ones that feel the most guilty will be the most busy pointing fingers. Knowing that you loved her and did all you could should comfort you now. If your family doesn't agree that will be their problem. I would look to friends and neighbors to be your support network now.

 

Your goal is to move forward and be happy and productive. That is what your grandmother would want for you.  God bless.

 


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