It's hard to believe that September is just a few days away. The hours seem to pass without notice here in the house the love built.
Jack continues to get weaker by the day, he is no longer able to stand on his own...needing assistance in the smallest of things. His weakened state also reflects in his communications. He rarely speaks, and even hand signals are getting harder to convey. I'm not sure if it is the tumor in his brain, weakness from barely eating or lack of oxygen that is causing it (he frequently will not use his oxygen). Whichever it is, it seems each day that passes he is more and more disconnected with those around him. Although he is still aware of what's going on around him and can hear you. Yet, there are still moments (usually around 4am) that he has moments of clarity where he can articulate his needs and understanding.
The time has come that we feel it is in Jack's best interest to limit the visitors he has. It just takes so much out of him. I know there are a lot of people who wished to come see him, but know that he loves you. Right now is time for family and close friends.
We have moved Jack upstairs into our bedroom which Jack also considers his space, his retreat. This is where we always spent our time after a long day. We knew Jack would feel better - more at peace - being up here. And thanks to Walt and Jim we were able to move the hospital bed up too! (Along with Jacks memory wall)
My nephew Steve is here today helping us out. He came up from Raleigh, where is in town from San Franisco for a veterans job fair tomorrow.
I want to give a big shout out too all our friends here in Todd who have recently set up a meal train to assist us. It has been a huge help to not have to worry about what we are doing for dinner! Thank you Linda for setting this up!
Each step I take is easier with you.
My brother-in-law Tim is walking The Way ('The Camino de Santiago' trail in Spain) this is what he told his wife (my sister Mary Ann) when she joined him for the last 100 km. I find that it is that way here with Jack. As hard as this is, it is easier with him and the help we've received from all those around us. Even from those who are here in spirit - We feel your presence! Your prayers, concerns, loving thoughts and support have made each step on this path easier to take. An analogy that I think Jack would like - it's like trail angels giving respite and meals for us and helping us carry our load on this uphill climb.
I also want to thank Hospice for all they are doing to help us. Their guidance in this difficult time has been a Godsend. They helped both my parents, and many others to navigate though these hard times.
Thank you for all your continued prayers, love and support.
Love truly is the greatest gift of all,
Helen
7 comments:
Dear Helen,
I am so glad to hear that you feel the Lord with you and Jack. His angels helping you in so many ways. You are always on our minds and glad you feel strength for each day for we have been praying for just that for you.
Sending love to you.
Merrie and Dan.
Dan sent a text to you Helen. Let us know if we can come see you and Jack tomorrow. It would be after my therapy at 11-12pm. We will call you before we visit. ❤��
Dear, sweet children. I pray that you know the love that we give each other comes from our Lord's great sacrifice and His love for us. My prayers continue for you and Jack..
Helen, I am so sorry. I hope Jack's passage is peaceful. I know God is holding both of you, and I hope you can feel strength from that. I know you are getting some sense of strength from Jack too, and I am very grateful that you have great love in your life. Your grace has touched me so much. Love you. Sheila
Dear Helen and Jack,
My prayers are for your peace of Christ that surpasses all understanding. There is no doubt that Jesus is with you and ready to welcome Jack when he is ready into paradise.
God be with you,
Howard Storm
To entire Rielly family,
I have known Jack for many years. I first met him while I was at Chapel Hill with Sean. I'll always remember the time spent with Jack and Sean at various important moments in our lives. Moving days, weddings, the celebrations of milestones, and most recently a birthday party in Charlotte.
Jack always had a kind word, a ready smile, a funny story. He was always interested in those around him and wanted to try to walk, even if but for a moment, in the shoes of others... to fully embrace the experiences and people around him.
My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family. I pray for Peace to be upon your hearts, and for you all to feel the love that is being sent your way from so many people scattered in so many places.
Oh, Helen. Your writing is a beautiful thing and a gift to all who encounter it, wherever we are on our friendship journeys with you and Jack. You are such a clear and willing vessel for healing forces to come to - and through - you. Your angels are all around, seen and unseen, and I do believe the veil is very thin between what is and what is to be. Through the passage I believe you are in the hands of "Incomprehensible Holy Mystery," as Judy Cannato names it. My prayer is rest for both you and Jack. With love, Susan King
I have been keeping up with each blog since the beginning. I know I don't know Jack very well, but you both have been nothing but amazing to me over the years of grandfather mountain, and the time opened your home to me when I took my trip as far North as I'd ever been, which is hilarious becsuse it is Kentucky. I love Elise more than most people I've ever met, and by default you three have always felt like family to me. I wish I could've been there in the earlier stages of this and had been able to spend some quality time with everyonr together, because I sure felt a void from not having a campsite visit from you and Jack this year. I hope every moment you all spend together from now on is as good as it can be, and that in this moment of sadness, and pain especially for jack, a few smiles can peek their way through. One can only hope to find someone to love as much as you both love each other. Thankyou for having the strength to post these blogs, and may everyone ultimately find the peace they need.
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