My heart broke twice

From 4/13/13; Edited 7/22/14

Yesterday Pat Romer died around 6:00 a.m. after an extended illness. She was my Aunt--dad's younger brother's wife--with such spirit. No grass grew under her feet! She traveled quite a bit, big trips with family and friends as well as smaller get aways. Pat was quite the crafter with a whole room in her basement bulging with supplies. She also was an RN which gave us a special bond. Like me, she was the only one in her family in healthcare, so we could talk in that way that nurses do--you can understand each other because of the universality of the field. I know my Uncle Joe is heartbroken. No matter how long you prepare or how blessed the relief of death on suffering can be, you never want to say that last goodbye.

With great sadness at 6:45 p.m. on the same day, Aunt Barb died too. Julie Fisher called to let me know that night. I cried and cried. Thankfully, Ann and Mark Stollenwerk, their son Chris and Doug Kohnen were with her. They said there was no pain and she died peacefully. I am just so very thankful that she didn't die alone.

I'll be flying to Ohio Sunday night to attend Aunt Pat's funeral and just as important see my family. I'll ride back with Chris and Mom. This summer we will celebrate Barb's life.

Barb and Pat

The news is not good from Ohio. Chris talked to Leah and Joe on Easter Sunday and they felt Aunt Pat would probably not make it past this week. She had stopped eating last week and barely drinks water with her meds. She is restless and does not sleep much at night. I am so sad for all the Romers especially Uncle Joe because he loves her so much.

I talked to Julie today for an update on Aunt Barb. It sounds like the sepsis has gotten much worse and that last night she went into shock. They loaded her with fluids and she came around. Julie said she seemed to be aware that she, Jane, Ann and Mark were there. Today they are going to do a peritoneal tap to drain her abdomen. They think she may have a small bowel tear contributing to the infection but that she is too weak for surgery.

And all I can do is pray.