they say it's not the end of the world but it sure feels like it

[simplyn2deep]

Today we finally sat down with the pre-arrangement counselor with a local mortuary to decide on and put a down payment on my dad's "final" arrangements.

The Doctor and nurse with hospice don't believe my dad's condition is going to improve. The neurologist told my dad's doctor that the blood clot in his brain is larger than he initially thought but it's still too deep, thus making it inoperable. So my dad is basically going to be on blood thinner medication the rest of his life. If he has another stroke, it could be one that he doesn't recover from. My dad has DRN (do not resuscitate) papers on record.

So, we contacted a local mortuary last week, got some information, then we were going to shop around, but the news from the doctor and my dad's increased lack of strength and frequent bouts of confusion, we opted to go with the only one we talked to.

But it's all settled. One less thing to worry about, but at the same time, one more thing to worry about as it's another bill we have to pay (for the next 5 years or until my dad dies).

I told my mom that as soon as I got a job, we could start on her arrangements. The counselor suggested it so that we can get a lower price now as opposed to years later when prices are higher.

Comments

[simplyn2deep.livejournal.com]

So I had this whole comment typed up about how it would be my way or the highway in regards to what was going to happen with my parents if they didn't have anything in place because I've lived with them, and I'm helping to take care of my dad. I know that's like penalizing my siblings for having their own lives or whatever, but that's just how my mentality is and has been for the last few years.

[dontelltheelf.livejournal.com]

That's totally within your rights to feel that way. I think I would too. You've had to sacrifice a lot of things to help out in the household, and now with your dad.

[dalwriter.livejournal.com]

I lost both of my parents in the last 3 years. Cherish the time you have remaining. I was an only child so I did it all -- sacrificing my career to deal with them -- but even when there are siblings, it still always falls to one person, like you. Hugs. Hang in there. Reach out if you need support. Writing helped me a lot.