A 70-year Love Story

Folks who read this blog came here over the years for the stories of rescued cats and dogs.  The stories have slowed down because the rescues have ended.  Winnie’s Wish is a sanctuary now which means there aren’t a lot of exciting stories to tell.  I’ve blogged less and less even though there are still 28 cats here (along with dogs, pigs, donkeys, and chickens) who require hours of attention and work each day.  Some of you know I’m still here.  And I will continue to post here and there about these animals I love.

But today, I’m veering way off topic for a brief mention of a Love Story close to my heart.  I’ve mentioned that my parents have been in decline for a while now.  A month ago, I brought in Hospice.   I’ve said to a few friends that if you’d told me a year ago that I would wish for my parents’ deaths, I would have said No Way.  But their suffering became so intense that that was indeed my wish for them.  It was certainly their wish for themselves.  Neither one wanted to be here any longer.  They had only one fear.  That one would go and leave the other one behind.

My parents were married for 68 years.  They were together for 70.  I know everyone probably says how wonderful their parents were, but I don’t have to embellish even a little bit when I sing their praises.  They were great parents.  Good people.  And dear friends of mine during my adult life.  I was so lucky to have them. 

This past week they got their wish.  They moved on from this earthly life.  And they did it just six days apart! 

My pain is deep.  I know I will never stop missing them.  But in the end, they got exactly what they wanted so badly – to get out of here . . .   together.

Mom and Dad – Farewell.

 

Comments

[The Poupounette Gang]

Whenever it happens, the loss of one's parents is a terrible heartbreak to all of us. It is the moment when one becomes an orphan. My deepest condolences to you. It is clear, however, that your parents were enormously lucky in the time they had together and with you. Good for them for managing to get their wings only a few days apart!

Virginia of The Poupounette

[Random Felines]

Oh I'm so sorry....yet glad they got their wish. Hugs

[Pam Tyson]

Oh my friend I’m so very sorry for your loss. I had just found out about your dad, but had no idea you lost them both. I know how hard it is when you are the only one left, but they got their wish to not be separated for long. A big hug to you.

[John Bellen]

The moment we all dread, yet the moment that must come and, in some cases, is preferred sooner than later. My parents were not in that position, but I can well understand it. Seventy years together and to be admired and loved by their children. Those facts say much, yet no facts can say it all. Godspeed, good people.

[Susan Howell]

So very, very, sorry Chrystal! I know how you feel: my Dad was in so much pain with cancer when he passed, and he was struggling for every breath. We were so heartbroken, but we knew it was for the best.

[meowmeowmans]

I'm so sorry, Chrystal. I am grateful your beloved parents are no longer suffering, and did not have to be apart for long.

[Kristi Bengoa-Voss]

Chrystal I’m very sorry for your loss but glad your parents’ final wishes were fulfilled. Keeping you in my prayers.

[Vivien Worthen-Powell]

Chrystal, I'm so sorry for your loss. I pray you can find comfort that they were only apart for a few days and that love never dies.

[Ginny and the Fur family]

I knew them both when they were young -your dad lived upon the corner from me when I lived in Metropolis -years ago. Moved to the other side of town and your mom and I were both ushers at the old Massac theater which still stands in Metropolis. It was so dark when we got to where she turned to go home I would stand there and watch till she got home. I remember when they started going out together and when they bought the house they lived in so many yeas.They were wonderful special people. So sorry for your great loss.