We went to visit Mom (Grandma) in the hospital from 4:50 until 6:11 p.m. today. Eight family members were there for the visit. Grandma was hooked up to oxygen, but her I.V. was not connected. She had eaten a few bites of oatmeal and drank a little milk this morning; this was the only food she had taken in 48 hours. She drank a little water while we were there.
Her face was puffy, and her hands and arms were swollen. They had removed the wedding ring which Grandpa had made for her from a quarter, because of the swelling. Her heart is tired, and various bodily systems are beginning to shut down. She will likely be with us for only a matter of days now.
The hospital staff told Grandma this morning that she was dying and asked her if she was afraid to die; she had told them “No.”
Grandma was only able to open her eyes, turn or nod her head, and move her hands, but she could hear everything we said to her. Each of us took turns talking to Grandma and holding her hand. Several of us cried. Fortunately they had moved Grandma to a new room only this morning; there is a “Family Comfort Room” adjacent to this room for the benefit of distraught loved ones.
Wendi told Grandma that we would try to get back up and see her on Friday. With great difficulty Mom responded verbally with “Okay.”
We took turns hugging and even kissing Grandma before we left. Grandma took Charlie’s hand twice and didn’t want to let go.