Things are not good. Muriel's stroke was at the base of her brain stem. Controls swallowing, breathing, balance. Jayne, my SIL, arrived at the hospital last night at 10pm or so with her oldest son. When her husband and other son arrives today (hopefully), they will say their goodbyes and Muriel will be taken off life support. She had indicated prior to this that she did not want to live if put in a situation with such a hopeless outcome.
When the surgeon asked her yesterday if she knew she had suffered a stroke, she nodded yes. When he asked her if she wanted more surgery, she shook her head no. And then she pointed to heaven.
A second doctor later in the day asked her the same questions. She replied in the same fashion, and again, pointed to heaven. She has fought her last battle. She is prepared to meet Jesus at the gates of heaven. We are convinced God needs a good cook up there and is calling Muriel home for that purpose!
We are all broken up. My boys are heartbroken. This is their first grandparent to die, their first experience with death. On Saturday, my eldest son found out a 17 year old girl in his church choir was seriously injured in a car accident. He found out she had died when he arrived for choir practice Sunday morning but that she was being kept alive to harvest her organs for others in need. The 178 members of the church choir were devastated, yet bravely sang that morning in honor of their dear friend. Needless to say, he is having a tough time coping with these two losses.
I was up this morning at 330am, I just couldn't sleep anymore. We got home late last night after we had the boys brought to the hospital to say their goodbyes to Grandma. I didn't sleep well. Doug stayed at his Dad's house to be there for him.
I don't know when I'll post again. I'll try checking in daily for those of you following this long, painful journey.
Hugs,
Amy
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Update
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I'm so sorry to hear this news. I'll be keeping your family in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteJen
Amy, I am soooo sorry about Muriel's stroke. I can only imagine how painful this is for your family. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers....
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry for you & your family - but not for Muriel! I know the grieving process will be awhile. Don't worry about posting - all your loyal readers will still be here when you return. What a testimony of a faithful life she has been to her family & others. I love hearing what happened at the hospital - that she wanted to go "home" & more importantly, that she was ready - thank you for sharing that! May God wrap his arms about your family & give you His peace that passes all understanding. I know you will be able to feel His presence & the many prayers that will be holding you up to Him!
ReplyDeleteGosh I am so sorry to hear this sad news this morning. We all must face death at some point in our lives, but it's never easy for any of us. I'm happy for you that she is still able to make her own decisions and lift that burden off your shoulders. God bless and keep you in these trying times - sending big hugs your way today.
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry to hear about Muriel. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers....
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Kim P.
Amy,
ReplyDeleteI will keep your family and Muriel in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all during this difficult time.
Jeannine
My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. My father too suffered such a stroke. Muriel has fought a brave fight.God Bless. Susan
ReplyDeleteOh Amy, I am so, so sorry for your loss. I've been following you on this journey, hoping for a good outcome but fearing the worst. It's never easy losing a loved one, whether family or friend and my heart goes out to you & your family. And to your son as well as he is facing the loss of his friend. All the best to you and your family at this time.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteSo sad to read in your blog about Muriel. I hope you and Doug can take some comfort in knowing that it is her wish to be at rest. We had to make that decision for my FIL who was on life support. Very tough to go through. Wish I could make thing better for you and your family with all you are going through. You seem like such a lovely person. Prayers for your family and Muriel.
Sue
I'm so sorry Amy, my heart is aching for you & your family. I am sending big hugs and prayers your way.
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry. I weep with you as I read your heartfelt words. I rejoice with Muriel in that she knows the beautiful place she is going. Go now ... take care of your family and yourself and we, you blogging friends, will wait and pray and hold you close in our hearts. May God comfort you all in this difficult time and may the prayers of friends be felt deep within you.
ReplyDeleteAlthough we've never met, I still sit here with tears gathering in my eyes for you and your family. I'm heartbroken for you. Know that we're all here for you.
ReplyDeleteI will be praying for Muriel and your whole family. May you be comforted in knowing that she is ready. I will pray for peace for you all. I am so sorry.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your MIL. Will be keeping your family in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteYvonne
Amy, I am so very sorry to hear this news. Please know that my prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteOh Amy, I am so sorry. I hope you know that I am a good listener. If you should be in need of one.
ReplyDeleteLike so many others, I too am praying for your family. I read your blog every day and am amazed at your creativity. It's beautiful! I have watched/read your struggles with Muriel and I have tears in my eyes as I read your post today. I pray that Muriel goes peacefully. . .but oh what fun she'll be having with our Lord! I recently lost my first grandparent this past summer and it was hard. We weren't very close anymore, but it wasn't easy. I will pray for your boys as I know what they must be feeling. Hugs to your entire family from this Texan.
ReplyDelete{{hugs}} I'm sorry for all the blows for your oldest son, that's tough. You & your family are in my prayers, your faith & love for one another will see you all through this tough time. There are BLESSINGS right around the corner
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear of the situation with Muriel. I lost my Dad after a stroke in the spring of 2006... huge hugs to all of you.
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry to read about your family's loss. I wish you all the best in getting through these trying times.
ReplyDeleteMint
Oh, Amy, I am so sorry to hear about Muriel. How heartbreaking for you and your family to lose a loved one!!! The angels and Muriel's heaven Father are preparing a huge celebration for her homecoming (not that it makes it any easier for you). Please take your time greiveing and whenever you feel up to posting please do. All your "fans" will be waiting for you!!!
ReplyDelete{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this very difficult time. May you all find peace....
ReplyDeleteDebbie J.
Praying for you and Muriel. She is an amazing lady who will always be in your hearts.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteKeeping your entire family in my prayers.
Trish
I am very sorry to read this updated. So much so that I'm sobbing at work and people are looking at me funny. But, you, your family and your son's choir will be in my thoughts and prayers. *hugs*
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteI feel I've come to know you and your family on these pages.
So sorry for all this sadness.
Hugs and prayers for you all.
Annette
I am so sorry to hear about Murial - It is so hard to loose a loved one - My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. Di
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your loss. I'll pray for His strength for your family as I'm confident your husband can use this time to help his family and especially his dad. I'll pray Jesus holds your heart together.
ReplyDeleteHis best,
Tina
Oh Amy, I'm so sorry. I lost my Nana in April, so I know what your sons are going through. Still praying for your family.
ReplyDeleteNicole
Amy,
ReplyDeleteMy heart and prayers go out to you and your family. Muriel sure seemed to be a very brave and strong soul. Those left behind have some grieving to do...and then try to celebrate her life and the times/memories shared with her. I'm truly sorry that your son had to deal with 2 deaths at the same time....one at that age is enough..hug him lots!!! Hug each other lots!!!! When it's time to post here again we'll all still be here!! :) Tend to what you must.
In Peace,
Tina Suzan
Life can sometimes be a terrible struggle, our only hope lies in heaven. Your family is in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteJudy
My heart aches for all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about Muriel's stroke, but she will be with our Heavenly Faither along with your son's friends. Sending hugs & prayers for your family! chris
Amy, I am so terribly sorry for the pain and heartache you are going through. I know that you know and understand that Muriel is ready and that she will no longer be suffering, but that doesn't make it any easier on those left behind. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for letting us share your sorrow with you, but go now and be with your family. We will be here when you return.
ReplyDeleteDo not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
ReplyDeleteAnd the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Oh Amy I'm so sorry! Muriel sounds like a beautiful women inside and out. What a peace she must have to point to heaven and know she is ready to fall into the arms of the ultimate healer, Jesus Christ. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you during this time. Lean on HIM!
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry to hear this about Muriel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeletePlease know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Take care Amy,
Trudi
I am very sorry....I will keep you all in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteCathy M.
Amy,
ReplyDeleteMy heart is just breaking for your family. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Jenn
Just wanted to let you know you and your family are in my prayers. I am glad Muriel will be at peace soon. Hugs to you. Harriet
ReplyDeleteMay you feel God's presence during this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteOh, Amy so sorry to hear this news. I'm sending prayers of comfort and peace out to your family. HUGS!
ReplyDeleteAmy you are your family are in our prayers today and through this tough process. It is so wonderful that you know where to find comfort and strength now. May you know and live God's peace and comfort.
ReplyDeleteYour family is in my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear this sad news. Prayers for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteDear Amy --
ReplyDeleteI am so saddened by all your family is having to go through right now. My prayers are with you.
I am so sorry, Amy. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry, Amy. I am praying for you and your family. Loss is never easy. Thankfully Jesus offers peace beyond understanding. hainking of you.... Angel
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry to hear that. It seems that Muriel is comfortated by the knowledge that she is going to a better place where she can be healthy again. I know that doesn't make it too much easier for you, but I hope it helps some. Your family will be in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this... please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!
ReplyDelete((((Big Hugs!!))))
Karrie
Amy, you have had such a difficult past few months. Thank you for being willing to share your trials with your readers (myself included, of course). You have so graciously accepted your trials and you will be blessed for your faithfulness to the Lord throughout it all. My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteLifting you and your family up in prayer Amy.
ReplyDeleteAmy, so sorry to hear about Muriel, but know that she is where she wanted to be. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteomg, amy, i am so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law! i am thinking of you and all your family at this difficult time, and glad that you are able to be there for each other!!!
ReplyDeletelots of love from your card-makin' pal--xoxo
I am teary just reading your post Amy, Know that my prayers are with you and your family. Muriel will be at peace, I am glad you have her blessings to go and see Jesus. Lots of {{{{{HUGS}}}}}}
ReplyDeleteAmy, GOD love you and your family. My heart goes out to you and yours. Reading the comments, I see that you have lots of prayers from all those you've touched. Know that as you hurt and heal, we'll be there with you.
ReplyDeleteamy, i don't want to say that i know how you're feeling, because i don't know your relationship with Muriel. but i do feel your pain, and believe that you will find great comfort in where Muriel's going and Who she's going to be with for eternity. loss is still loss, but i'd hate to experience loss without hope attached to it.
ReplyDeletedon't worry about when you post again, except it would be nice to know when services will be so that we can remember you.
I am so sorry to hear your news! You and your family are in my thoughts. :0)
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to read about Muriel's stroke. However, I can rejoice w/you that she knows the author & finisher of her faith, Jesus! God's grace is truly sufficient in times of loss. Praying for the family.
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sad for you. It's so hard to lose someone, know that you and your family will be in my prayers. May God bless you and comfort you in this hard time.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry. Your family is in my prayers. THere is hope in knowing she is in a better place.
ReplyDeleteAmy, just as I decided to browse your blog, I was overcome with emotions, almost knowing what I was going to read. My heart aches with you. I am so terribly sorry for your loss, and for your son's loss with the girl from church. Death is such a sad thing for those left behind, but for those believers it is the start of eternal life...a life we should all long for! Muriel knows it is her time...wow...that is just so incredible. I got goosebumps when I read that she pointed home! Please know you are in my prayers and let us know where we can send cards!!!!
ReplyDeleteAmy, take your time getting back to blogland. You have SOOO much going on right now. We love you!!!
I am so sorry. Losing a parent is never easy. I will keep you and your family in my prayers and thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss, Amy. I will be praying for you! Thanks for sharing as sometimes just getting it out is a good way to deal with things, not to mention the support you will get from all those lives you touch with your blog! Melissa
ReplyDeleteOh, Amy I am so sorry to hear this sad news. I have been following Muriel's ups and downs on your blog and feel such heartache for all of you. I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteLori
Amy, I'm so sorry to hear what your family is going through. Prayers & Hugs for all of you.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about Muriel's stroke. Even though we don't know what it is, God has a plan for all of us. Sending lots of hugs to your family.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about all this. I to know about loss. I first wemt thru in the 80's with my grandparents,both sets died. Then 2 years ago when my dad died of a hear attack. which we still miss him terribly. By scrapping and talking about it it has helped me get thru it. praying to our Lord also helps me thru it as I know he will be there just as he will for you. He is there always whenever we need him, all we need to do is ask and we shall receive. He always open a window. your family will be in my prayers thru this hard time in your life.
ReplyDeleteAmy, I am so sorry for all of you. Muriel certainly has been a strong spirit. I also live in MN and heard about the girls who were in the horrible car accident. It is so sad to lose such beautiful young people. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteI have been following this whole ordeal all summer and I am so sorry that it has ended this way. I hope for peace for your family and especially your MIL at last. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Geny C.
My heart goes out to your family, Amy. I understand what it feels like to lose a parent, but I also know the joy I experience when I think of my dad in heaven with our Lord, rejoicing in His presence! I cannot express greater joy than this. May your family be at peace during this time of grief and loss.
ReplyDeletebarb
Oh Amy, such sad news. I'll keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. You're having a rough time lately, huh!! Big Hugs!!
ReplyDeleteWhat an almost unbearable week.
ReplyDeleteI will surely keep your husband and family in my prayers. And also your church. We lost two teens to two separate auto accidents in six months at our church--I am quite familiar with that pain (one was my children's babysitter).
I will hold your community in prayer.
Joining in your sorrow, Juliana
Oh Amy, what a long arduous road. Our Father is good and faithful and someday you'll understand what wonderful things have come about as a result of this difficult time. My heart goes out to your son and this girl's family who has died as result of the accident. These things just grab you in the gut, but once again, someday, we'll understand, until then, we trust with faith. (:) big hug
ReplyDeleteOh, Amy, I am so sorry for your heartbreak. My prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for you and you family, but am glad to know that Muriel knows the Lord and will be with Him soon... My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI have followed your blog for such a long time that hearing this news has saddened me to tears. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. May God Bless you all and also your son. I am sure he is going through a hard time also, with the loss of his friend.
ReplyDeleteAmy you don't know me but I follow your blog and wanted to extend my prayers to you and your family as you say your goodbyes. Know Muriel will be entering a wonderful place special for her and that she was ready to go. How great is that for her. You have your memories to cherish and hold on to.
ReplyDeleteMay God be with you and your family - wrapping his arms around you all for comfort as you go through this difficult time.
Your loyal readers will be hear for you when you are ready.
so sorry Amy. my thoughts are with you and your family
ReplyDelete