Update on Mom, 12/10

Last night was a tough one. Mom had an infection and a fever, chills. Her heart rate was 101 (normal is about 70), she was distressed. I thought back a few years to when my grandma was in the hospital. I walked into her room at Queen's and it was quite obvious to me that she was in her last days. But my two aunties, Auntie Momi and Auntie Pua, were there and talking about how well their mom was doing and that she was going to get better and go home. And I remember thinking, "these girls are in denial".

So last night, as we watched my mom's condition deteriorate, I couldn't help but think, "are me and Camille in denial?" I don't think I am, but I think my sister was. So I just prayed...for comfort for my mom, for the Lord's hand in her life and in her death, and for my sister - strength and wisdom. Then this morning, my sister said she thinks mom is dying. We talked about it, and know that when the Lord calls mom home, then she goes. When her body has had enough, then she will pass from this life to the next.

Our days are numbered by God, and nothing in our life or death happens without his permission. This is true no matter if we are 72, or 22. So I remind everyone again to sign your advance healthcare directive, lest you end up in limbo like Terry Schiavo did for 15 years.

Today, mom's condition improved thanks to antibiotics and prednisone. She interacted with the three therapists - physical, occupational and speech. They are hopeful that mom could regain some of her functions. We will need to wait and see.

I need to brace for a long haul, a physically and emotionally draining long haul. Take my vitamins, draw near to God, get some exercise, eat right. Thank you all for praying for me and for my family. Please continue to pray for my mom, and also for my husband and children who have to do without me when I come over to Honolulu. They don't complain at all. Gee - I wonder if that's a good thing :).