I am rather fortunate to still have three out of four grandparents living. My grandfather passed away ten years ago, and his wife, my grandmother, is in good health. My other set of grandparents, my Oma and Opa, are 90 and 92, and my Oma is going downhill in terms of her health.
My family and I have been aware of my Oma’s decline in health for over a year now, but within the past month or so, she has taken a turn for the worst and likely won’t last much longer. Seeing someone you love dying is tough and frustrating, as you find yourself wishing you could do something to help, but realistically, there isn’t much we can do.
My Oma is in a hospice in Hamilton and is receiving impeccable care. This is a definite reassurance for my family and me. Knowing her pain is being controlled and monitored provides relief for us because we aren’t with her every day, so it is comforting to know she is experiencing wonderful care.
As difficult as it is to watch someone we love reach the end of their life, it is equally difficult to watch friends and family who are close to this person and their emotional turmoil as a certain end draws nearer. Being supportive, understanding, helpful and generous is the best way to help others through these challenging times, and being the recipient of these efforts can help to diminish the exterior and uncontrollable pain they’re facing.
Death is inevitable, but the way in which we approach it is subjective and in our own hands. We cannot stop death, but we can learn to make the most out of a trying situation, and in turn grow emotionally. Self-reflection and understanding are two tools to rely on when dealing with death, and it’s up to us how we use them.
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