The DU Lounge
Related: Culture Forums, Support Forums(Update:4-10-24 AM) I'll most likely be noticeably absent from DU momentarily.
Last edited Wed Apr 10, 2024, 07:57 AM - Edit history (1)
Yesterday, I prepped a bunch of friendly road trip food for myself and I made Hello Dollie treats for my passenger. I ran the dishwasher and completed a load of laundry.
I knew that we had an awesome community here on DU. I hadn't expected so much love and support and it's greatly appreciated. Thank you, DU!
I now have the vehicle loaded up and will be headed out shortly. Peace and love to you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My 97 year young grandmother has succumbed to dementia. I didn't say anything right away since I knew that I would have to wait for details on final arrangements.
I have long distance driving ahead of me, almost 400 miles each way.
I'll have my phone on me so I might sneak in on occasion and I'll most likely will be able to rec a few OP's here and there.
It hasn't really hit me yet which is odd for me. I haven't really figured out what my emotions are right now. I'm actually dreading being around all my cousins, aunts and uncles. I've cut ties with them eons ago because they're politically toxic.
I need to go finish preparing road food and packing.
Love,
Niagara
underpants
(182,877 posts)❤️
from all of us who recognize your pain...........
Easterncedar
(2,322 posts)I wish you what comfort there can be in fond memories.
Safe travels.
Irish_Dem
(47,382 posts)You will be OK.
debm55
(25,352 posts)driving, my friend. Love, Debbie . Peace to your grandma.
onecaliberal
(32,894 posts)Hugs. Peaceful vibes.
hlthe2b
(102,357 posts)and let those "numb you" to your loss. Sometimes a long drive can be both focusing and cathartic.
So sorry for your loss. Best wishes...
3catwoman3
(24,041 posts)...and a safe journey.
niyad
(113,552 posts)sinkingfeeling
(51,473 posts)Bayard
(22,149 posts)Its really hard to see a loved one succumbing to this terrible disease. Stay safe on your trip. Assure your grandmother that you love her.
cate94
(2,813 posts)Oopsie Daisy
(2,674 posts)pandr32
(11,611 posts)Hekate
(90,793 posts)BlueSky3
(514 posts)I feel for you. I miss my Granny still, though she died in 1976. I can still hear some of the things she told me.
PlutosHeart
(1,288 posts)Not an easy situation. Drive safely.
MuseRider
(34,119 posts)You will be fine with your relatives assuming they will hold their views in light of the situation. I sure hope they do for your sake. 97 is a terrific thing. How nice to have someone that old to love.
Take it easy on the driving and be well.
Backseat Driver
(4,394 posts)Goddessartist
(1,864 posts)and safe travels.
calimary
(81,466 posts)Perhaps there will be at least a little bit of reconciliation at your extended family gatherings. Hopefully the politics wont be invited in. Sometimes cooler heads and courtesy can, and do, prevail.
That said, youre already going the extra mile (400 miles, to be exact) to be there. Youre already reaching out and honoring them AND your grandma by your effort to be there. Youre ALREADY putting them before your own interests. I hope its recognized and appreciated there, as it already is, right HERE.
And if not, you will ALREADY have given a full measure of devotion and you can walk away with strength and certainty that YOU were there and YOU did your part for the sake of love and family unity. And if YOU have to step away early because they become unpleasant and unsupportive and combative at a time like this when goodness and kindness are needed, then SO BE IT!
YOU WILL HAVE DONE YOUR PART.
And YOU HAVE NOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF.
And, AGAIN, you have a support system right here that will buoy you up. And this one is open 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, including holidays of all kinds.
Hope22
(1,859 posts)97 years! She must have been a very strong woman. Safe travels on your journey. About your cousins, aunts and uncles I wish you the best of strength and elasticity. My heart goes out to you. Take care!💗💗🙏🏼
Solly Mack
(90,785 posts)I'm sorry for your loss.
Not Heidi
(1,290 posts)I'm so sorry to hear of your dear grandmother. You're a loving, dutiful grandchild to travel so far to be with her - especially to drive 400 miles.
Be safe. All my best to you.
livetohike
(22,163 posts)every good memory always comfort you .
wendyb-NC
(3,330 posts)May she R.I.P. Please, have a safe travels, Niagra.
irisblue
(33,023 posts)Dem2theMax
(9,653 posts)And be safe on the road. Know that you have thousands of people with you in the car. All of us.
We will all be thinking of you.
When the family starts to drive you crazy, go lock yourself in a bathroom with your phone, and vent to us.
live love laugh
(13,129 posts)Donkees
(31,453 posts)True Dough
(17,320 posts)Safe travels. We'll look forward to your posts when the time is right.
All the best to you.
debm55
(25,352 posts)Rhiannon12866
(205,995 posts)And she also moved from here in New York to a retirement community which was much warmer, so it was also a trip. Just be careful out there and let us know how you are when you can. You know that DU is always here for you and so many of us can identify.
democrank
(11,103 posts)Sending hugs
OldSWODog
(37 posts)Niagara, greetings...tough work in sad times, indeed...I wish you safe travels in honoring your grandmother and returning home to reflect on on a special lady...take care of yourself. OSD