Anyone that knows my sister, understands that she enjoys being a stage director. She took on this role as the eldest sister and here we are 52 years later, she continues to lead from the bedside as we follow her script.
We transferred Susan to the Portland Legacy Hopewell House Hospice on Monday. It is a beautiful home (3.5 acres) built in 1926 and was donated by the family in 1984. There are 14 bedroom suites and Susan is being cared for and lying comfortably. The setting is perfect: quiet and relaxing. The nurses are incredible here and are taking good care of Sue.
Legacy Hopewell House
6171 Southwest Capitol Highway
Portland, OR 97239
(503) 244-7890
Earlier in the week, she was sleeping all day and opening her eyes for a few minutes communicating with us and then falling back asleep. Her current state (as of yesterday)was much more alert and opened the morning with "dad, can I have a hug". She has been able to swallow oatmeal and pears the past two days and you can see the effect in her energy. She is still sleeping 95%+ each day, but continues to amaze us with her resiliency to live.
Vital signs: Her heart rate was up to 114 last night which is common for rising heart rates as it works harder to stay alive. The nurses describe a person in this condition as running a marathon due to the energy it takes to stay with us. Her breathing continues to become slower and slower with long pauses between each breath. (Another common sign)
Sue continues to find ways to be funny by responding to certain questions with a satirical approach in her answers. For example; my mother has been "sponge moistening" the inside of her mouth and lips to ensure no cracking and when asked if she would like some water from the sponge, (with her eyes closed), Sue whispers "well, yeah".
The Mason & Hockensmith families (our incredible cousins) have been taking great care of us. Stopping by throughout the day, bringing baskets of treats and hosting dinners. Thank you and know this is how Sue wanted it scripted. We love you guys.
Finally, I would like to share with you another part of the script that Sue directed when we were in Good Samaritan ICU last week.
Setting: Good Samaritan ICU room #24
Lead Actor: Susan
Supporting actor: Aaron
Cast: 25+ McCormicks, Masons, Hockensnmiths and Sue's dearest friends
Note: Only 4 people allowed in the ICU, yet lead nurse stated he only saw 4 of us. :-)
Aaron is the worship leader at West Valley Community Church in Hillsborough (cousin Joel is the lead Pastor). He played his guitar and lead us in a powerful way that evening. Sue lied in bed with a slight smile (while her eyes were closed) and knew God was in total control. The room was centered on the lead actress as music filled the ICU. Room #23 asked to open their sliding glass door so they could listen in to this powerful music & praise.
There was not a dry eye in the room when it ended that evening, but I do know that everyone present left with much more than what they came with. The stage director wanted it that way. I look forward to seeing Sue this morning and it wouldn't surprise me if she had the TV on wearing her Giants jersey and asking what we have planned for the day. I look forward to seeing the next act. My sister the stage director always makes life more interesting. Love her.
Matt
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3 comments:
Beautifully written, Matt! Thank you for sharing these precious moments with all of us who can't be there with you. Send my love to Sue and the rest of your family. Big hugs to you all.
Aunt Cheryl
Matt,
Please give my love to everyone and thank you for writing so beautifully. My prayers and thoughts to your family and please give your mother a hug from me. I wish I could take away your pain at losing Sue she is quite a lady, but your family has been a wonderful example of love. I send my love and prayers to Sue and all your family.
Lois
Matt, that was me the nurse Carrie(angel) in room 23 who opened the door to hear the beautiful music. Your family really touched me. I felt God all around the room that day. I feel blessed to have met you and your family and to have been able to help susan in her journey somehow with comfort and oompassion. May she rest in the comfort of God's love and her family. Carrie Gregson RN Good Samaritan ICU-thanks for sending me to your blog and Dr. Debose has thanked the entire ICU for the care of your sister and how great of a person she is. love and peace brother......
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