I lived in Punta Gorda, FL for six years back in the 1990s. My first friend here was Candy. I met her at Church as we both sang in the choir. It’s funny how quickly we knew each other. It was like two souls that had been together at some other place and time, were once again reunited.
Our first couple of years Candy sat next to me and we sang together. We even sang a couple of duets. She was so good, with pitch-perfect tone and it was easy for me to follow her.
Then the last choir director left and Candy became our organist Choir Master. She was amazing. She picked wonderful hymns and knew how to work them over with the choir.
Candy and Me. Back in the day.
So, yesterday, as I drove down US 41 to US 17 and out to Arcadia, where she is now in hospice, I was recalling so much of our time together.
Most of good old Punta Gorda was washed away during Hurricane Charley, but there were many areas I still recalled. Things that had not changed.
Yet, now, as I drove out to Arcadia, I knew that everything is about to change for me, in regard to this special place.
Getting the Governmental System to allow Candy back into Hospice was not easy. It angers and frustrates me to see that a person needs to be suffering and because an i wasn’t dotted or a t crossed, things will not be done! I think the part that makes me even wilder is that while people suffer, our esteemed Government does nothing to hold the insurance companies accountable!
In any case, after several hours of talking to Nurses, Doctors and Social Workers, Candy’s sister got her back into Inpatient Hospice Care.
I’m relieved. I leave tomorrow to return to New Hampshire, and I was so worried about who would be with her during the days. Now I know she will be well cared for.
Of course, today, when I go out to Arcadia again, it will be one of my hardest days. When I leave Candy today, it will be the last time I see her in this world. I am planning for tears, and I am expecting a downtime until I can compose myself and then drive the 40 minutes back to Punta Gorda.
Life is never guaranteed. None of us know when our last day will be. This is why I believe that we must make every day count and make sure those that we love know how we feel.
Maribeth,
I am so sorry for what you are going through but glad you were able to spend quality time with your friend. Cancer just sucks and in the end it sometimes just “torturers” you to the bitter end, so hard. So great full that my Gsil did not have to suffer that way. Maribeth, you and your friend have been in my prayers that her suffering can end soon and that you have safe travels back home.
Paul
Thinking of you, MB. I had to do the same thing almost 4 years ago. I cried buckets as I kissed my dear friend in Louisville goodbye, knowing I’d be back shortly but for her funeral. Wishing you both strength and peace.
Wishing you strength in this very difficult time.
Hugs.
Oh my. My heart is breaking for you as you have to leave your dear friend to return home. I’m so glad you are comforted knowing she is back in hospice care and will have her needs and pain taken care of. Bless you and I’m praying you will have a safe journey home where you loved ones there wait for you to get there!! Hugs & love!