Last Parent…..Goodbye

~ Martha Reynolds

We’re still trying to process everything that has happened in the past forty-eight hours. I so wanted us – especially Jim – to have a vacation. The caregiver needs respite and we thought it would be okay to go.

My father-in-law died early this morning. He was in the Philip Hulitar Hospice Unit, thanks to my wonderful sister Mary Beth. He didn’t die alone. We were in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada. It took two days to drive there, long drives. So ten hours after arriving, I packed up our stuff and we headed back, 

Tonight we’re in Machias, on the Maine coast. We’ll be home tomorrow. Meanwhile, I’m taking care of my husband. That’s as much as I can write this evening.

Published by Martha Reynolds

I am the bestselling author of eight novels, including the Swiss Chocolate trilogy and VILLA DEL SOL, which won the 2018 Book Award in Literary Fiction from the Independent Publishers of New England. My newest novel, APRIL IN GALWAY, releases 29 November 2018.

46 thoughts on “Last Parent…..Goodbye”

  10. Hi Martha. I haven’t checked my email all week and was arrested by the title of yours. I am so sorry for Jim’s and your loss. It was surprising and all too relatable because I lost my dad, my last parent, on Monday. I hope both dads have already met up in heaven.

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  11. So sorry for your loss Martha. This end of life process is so very challenging. I pray you and Jim can take comfort in the knowledge you cared for his Dad but also cared for yourselves. This is not easy but is so very necessary for the fullness of life. As you grieve, go gently.

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  12. Dear Martha – one just never knows and I’m so sorry to read this … be safe, take care and do what you’re doing – taking care of your husband … with thoughts – Hilary

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  15. Martha and Jim, I am so saddened by our loss. May your fondest memories of Jim’s father, help you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

    Debbie Samolyk MacMillan

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  17. Martha I’m so sorry. As one of your friends noted, maybe your father in law thought it would be easier for you and your husband this way. I didn’t realize you were even going through all of this. Prayers and hugs to you and your family at this difficult time. I love the picture by the way! I bet your father in law did too.

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  19. Thank you for letting us know…we share your heartfelt feelings and loss. A candle is lit and will remain so until you and Jim return safely. Bless Beth , Jim and you…feel our love surround you all!

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  20. Martha and Jim,
    I’m so sorry to read this. Take care in driving home, and know that many people will be carrying warm thoughts for you.
    Lila

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  24. Martha, I am so sorry. My heart is broken for you and Jim. I know you’ve delayed any extended time away while you & Jim cared for his father. Please consider that your father-in-law may have thought it would be easier for Jim this way. Who knows how the spirit works. Please pass my sincere condolences to Jim. My thoughts are with you both. Love you both, Cindy

    Sent from Cindy’s iPhone

    >

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