Two months ago my mother, almost 95, was diagnosed with cancer. So far, she feels no physical discomfort even from the effect of chemo pills she takes each evening. She has a wonderful attitude as expressed in her very own words, “I have lived a long and productive life in good health, I don’t mind dying.”
Mildred Koorhan lives each day wondering what she can do to better someone else’s life. She never missess a birthday or life cycle event of friends and family. She has always taken care of those around her, including my father and step-father, who were not blessed with the good health that she has enjoyed.
My mother has always supported me throughout my entire life. She encouraged me to be the best that I could be through several career changes. She was never critical of me in any way and because of her faith in me, I was able to move through life with confidence.
It is now my turn to support her and to be by her side through what inevitably will be a difficult time. I feel somewhat lucky in a way, as I have time to say all those things I have neglected to say and to thank her for offering me her unconditional love.
It appears that you were given an angel to walk along side of you even after you were born! Thanks so much for sharing your love for your mother and hers for you with all of us. It is very inspirational.
Georgia, I love the picture of your beautiful mother. I’m grateful to have met her several times over the years. Most mothers love their children, I believe, but it’s the unconditional (and non-judgmental!) quality that sets many apart. As my own mother did, telling her daughter that she is ready is another gift she gives you.
Your mother sounds like a wonderful woman and you are very lucky in some ways that she is so aware of her circumstances. You will forever cherish your conversations in the coming weeks, but don’t be surprised if she doesn’t want to discuss serious things.
She may want to remember her happy memories, vacations, Broadway shows she saw, things that stand out in her memory as happy times. Even memories from her distant past of siblings, cousins, and the things they did when they were little, will seem vivid to her.
What a striking woman. My mother lived to 95 also and kept that same vibrant look almost until the end. How blessed you are to still have your mother around.