I am interested in reading experiences of primary caregivers of a dying parent.

[Skeletor]

25. I cared for my mother for the majority of my life...

She first got sick back in 1986 with a disease similar to MS. I was 7 years old at the time, and would help her out as much as I could. As time went on, her disease progressed and her gait became more unsteady and her strength decreased. I quit school at 16 to help care for her while my father worked to pay the bills.

I do have 1 sibling, but she moved away in the early 90s. She wasn't totally absent from my mother's care, but I did do the bulk of it. Throughout this time, my mom survived cancer and a total removal of her voice box. She never once lost her courage throughout this.

2 months ago, on August 15th, she started having trouble breathing. I called an ambulance, but on the way to the hospital she passed at the age of 64. I'm still in the numb phase. I've cried very little, and I'm wondering when/if the weight of her loss will totally hit me. I'm keeping myself busy with my job and my animals. She was my best friend. When I came out to her at 23...she totally accepted me without question. I miss her every second of every day.

Just stay strong and know that you're not alone.