A Privilege and a Blessing: Walking with Dad in His Final Journey

 

Exodus 20:12(NIV) states "Honor your father and your mother," How do we honor our father and mother? I am pretty sure this verse comes into more detail during our adulthood. 

Life is a beautiful tapestry woven with moments of joy, love, and sometimes unexpected challenges. One such challenge that many of us may face is caring for an aging parent as they near the end of their life. In my own journey, I have had the privilege of welcoming my dad into my home as of August 2, 2023 as he receives hospice care. While it can be burdensome at times and require extra work in the house, I have come to realize that this experience is not only a responsibility but also an incredible privilege.

Caring for an aging parent who requires hospice care undoubtedly brings additional responsibilities and challenges into our lives. The physical demands, emotional rollercoaster, and adjustments within our home can be overwhelming at times. However, amidst these burdensome aspects lies a profound blessing - the opportunity to walk alongside our loved ones during their final journey. To truly "Honor my father". 

By embracing these challenges with love and compassion, we create an environment where our parents can find comfort, peace, and dignity in their last days. It's not just about providing physical care but also offering emotional support through conversations filled with reminiscing cherished memories or simply being present to listen when they need someone to talk to.

One significant advantage of having Dad move into our home instead of opting for a nursing home is his ability to maintain his sense of dignity within familiar surroundings. Being surrounded by family photos on the walls or sleeping in his own bed (though it is a hospital bed) allows him to hold onto cherished memories while finding solace in familiarity.

This sense of continuity helps alleviate some anxiety that often comes with transitioning into unfamiliar environments during such vulnerable stages of life. By creating a space where he feels safe and secure while receiving necessary medical attention from hospice professionals who visit regularly, we are able to honor his dignity and provide a sense of comfort during this challenging time.

Having Dad in my home will allow me and my family to cherish precious moments that I may have missed if he were in a nursing home. From sharing meals together, engaging in heartfelt conversations, or simply sitting quietly holding hands, these intimate moments create lasting memories that will be treasured long after he is gone.

While it can be emotionally draining at times, the privilege of being present for these final moments far outweighs any temporary inconvenience or extra work required. It is an opportunity to express love and gratitude for all that our parents have done for us throughout our lives.

May we embrace this privilege with open hearts and open arms as we walk alongside our parents during their final journey. Let us treasure every moment spent together and find solace in knowing that we are providing them with the love and care they deserve until the very end.

In the end, it is not just about what we do for them but also about what they teach us - lessons of resilience, strength, unconditional love - lessons that will forever shape who we are.

I am forever grateful for a wife that supports this decision. I have said it many times that Tracy is a saint. Fact is, I told her if it were her parents, I would do this in a heartbeat for them as well.  Emma has given up her freshly painted bedroom so that grandpa can stay in it. Emma will be using a make shift room elsewhere in the house. I am truly blessed with a great family. 

Side Note: The bed pictured here is his hospital bed in Emma's bedroom. We will be adding quite a bit to the room in days to come.