by Audrey Busciglio

Created on: December 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 05, 2011

As parents age and go through the progression of change the offspring in many cases  will   tend to their needs, and take on a sort of reversal of roles from having parents looking after them, to taking on the role of caretaker. A difficult situation both emotionally, and sometomes physcially. I know from experience that seeing the decline of mom and dad can be  very difficult for an adult child to accept. Parents are usually the pillar of strength in the child's life throughout adulthood. The security where the offspring can feel comfort, and emotionally grounded, where guidance and love will grow and develop. A safe haven of protection, and support, in a sometimes difficult world.

My parents were both in their eighties when they passed away. They lived a full life, and got to see me (their only child) grow, graduate college, teach, marry and have children of my own. My children were older when their grandparents died, and my parents were around long enough to see my daughters grow, and become young ladies. I consider myself lucky than many people, because, my parents were with me a long time, compared to some people who may  have left this earth, at a younger age. That being said I still miss them, and feel a void, because, they are no longer physically present on earth.   I  am an only child and my parents were my immediate family as a youngster  and  the three of us  shared  many  good times and sometimes difficult  times  as I grew up. I will always treasure the bond that we had, and never forget it.

I was luckier than many people, because, my parents needed some assistance, but, they were self sufficient, and did not need around the clock care, even towards the end. My mom was in and out of the hospital. She was sick a lot, and fought a hard battle. I did my part in helping her out, with her personal needs, and household chores. I visited her in the hospital, and at home, and we had many conversations, about the past, present, and future. I got to view my mom through the eyes of an adult, who understood better the trials, and tribulations, that were present throughout her life.

 She seemed so vulnerable at times, when she became frail, and in need of assistance. Sometimes just being there to listen, and share a laugh or two helped her know I was there for her, and loved her very much. I stroked her brow,and told her things would be alright.

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