Sunday, March 2, 2014

Saying Goodbye to Papaw...

Hello friends, sorry I've been gone for a while. 
 
Just a few days shy of my 42nd birthday I lost my beloved Papaw Jodi. 
He was 88 years old.
Yes, I know - that is a wonderfully long life.
But... I will miss him terribly.
 
 
I have been so blessed to have had all FOUR of my grandparents for this long.
Each of them so very instrumental in my life as well as my son's life.
He has been loved tremendously by his great-grandparents - what a gift to have known and loved them like he has.
 
 
 
Alzheimer's overcame my Papaw's mind and after nearly a month of no sleep - his body just gave out.
 
He was a fighter and he never lost his spirit.
 
I'm certain that many of you have been affected by this terrible disease and I understand the heartache, the emotional, financial and physical toll it takes.  I totally admire my grandmother and my parents for the unending love and support they showered my grandfather with. 
 
I just ask that we all continue to remember and pray for those who are suffering from this heart-wrenching, debilitating disease as well as their amazing caregivers. 
Oh, what incredible strength they must have to endure this journey.
 
I love you Papaw - and I'm so thankful for the 42 years I got to love you back. 
May your precious mind and body rest peacefully in the presence of God.
 
 

17 comments:

Valerie Cottage Making Mommy said...

I am so sorry for your loss Cathy. It will be a year on March 5th that I lost my grandmother to the same disease. Praying for a cure.

Many Blessings,

Valerie

The Old Cupboard Door said...

My deepest condolences Cathy. It hurts to watch someone you love slowly be lost to Alzheimers. I pray you find comfort in the beautiful memories you have made with your Pawpaw. I will say a prayer for your family.

Patty Sumner said...

I am so sorry for your lost Cathy.. It is a terrible terrible disease they he endured... I know your faith is strong! I pray God continue to bless you with peace and strength.. Blessings!

Melinda said...

Blessings and prayers for you
and your family.

M :)

NanaDiana said...

Oh, Cathy- My heart is swelling with ache for you..and I have a lump in my throat. I am so sorry you lost this precious man. My own mother died with Alzheimer's, too. It is a terrible, awful disease that robs you of your soul-of the person you were and will never be again. I don't understand WHY we have this sort of thing in the world. My mother called me THAT ONE for the last few years while she could still talk. I fully understand your grief but also know that it is a blessing to have him released from the Earthly prison of his body. xo Diana

Angela said...

So sorry Cathy. You have been blessed and I am sure there are many wonderful memories to hold close to your heart. My mother in law is suffering from this terrible disease and it is so sad for the whole family. Take care
Angela

Unknown said...

Cathy,
Greatfully none of my family has been touched by this insidious desease....yet. I have faith they will find a cure..with God's direction...in due time.Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Carolyn said...

I'm so very sorry for your loss. There are really no words at times like this. Praying for you & your family. May the memories of him bring you all comfort.

village folk art said...

Prayers for Peace and Blessings for you and your family. Sorry for your loss. Your grieving will be comforted.

Warm Regards,
Barb

Nancy @ Wrapped In Love said...

My condolences to you and your family! I lost my mother almost two years ago at 90, I was so blessed to have her so many years and miss her everyday! Dementia is a terrible thing!

Nancy

Laurie said...

So sorry for your loss, Cathy. Alzheimer's is indeed a terrible disease. But it sounds like you had a wonderful 42 years with your PawPaw. Cherish the memories until you see him again one day.

Dori at The Red Feedsack said...

Dear Cathy, I'm so very sad and sorry for your loss of Papaw. He looked like the absolute sweetest man. I can only imagine how you must be feeling. We cared for my mother in law for 5 years with Alzheimers and it truly is such a very sad disease. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you heal and recover. And a very tight hug to you too. ~ Dori ~

cindy said...

So sorry to hear of the passing of your granddaddy...I hope the happy memories will comfort you in the coming months. Sending your peace and love.

Carrie ~ Cricketwood Prims said...

Heartfelt condolences for your family! May your memories and family bring you comfort.

Tardevil said...

So very sorry for your loss. He looks like he was awfully sweet. I only knew one of my grandparents, and he died when I was sick. I always wonder how different life would have been if I had known them. So glad your son got some time with him.

ℳartina @ Northern Nesting said...

Cathy I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you!

Joolz said...

I am sorry for your loss.

My grandmother had Alzheimer's disease from 70 years old and my mother was diagnosed 2 years ago at age 82. She still knows us but is losing 'it' day by day. It is such horrendous disease.
It is lovely that you have such fond loving memories of your dear Papaw.

Joolz xx