Blind Irony

Grandma and Grandpa Rippy were both blind.  Uncle Bob, Aunt Clara and Uncle Ray are all visually impaired as a result of macular degeneration.  Dad was the last holdout-until this week.  In Washington Dad went on a bike ride with Lane and when they got to the top of the hill, he passed out, twice. Scared Lane half to death.  Tony encouraged him to go immediately to the hospital, but Dad declined.  All was normal until about half an hour after getting home to St George from their trip to WA when Dad realized he couldn't see half of his face.  This time, Tony was very insistent about getting evaluated in the ER and they went in.  A CT scan showed an ischemic stroke, so again at Tony's recommendation Dad did the mega blood thinning treatment.  It was a bit of a risky procedure, but had the most potential for restoring his sight.  The next day, he had a complication from the procedure and had a small bleed.  He ended up staying in the ICU for three nights.  Because of COVID, even Mom couldn't go see him, and we couldn't go give him a blessing.  Thankfully, one of the perks of UT is that the OT and PT were able to do it. :)

This incident brought several things into clarity.  First I'm really glad we are here in St George to help our parents in these last years, especially Tony's medical help.  It was comforting for Mom to be able to ask questions and get immediate explanations with someone she trusts.  Also, Dad and Mom have some work to do to prepare for these kind of situations and we really need to have conversations about caregiving.  Also, we have the most amazing support network.  Andrea and Betsy sent to tulips to both Mom and I and the symbol of that support over the last 20 years was the biggest comfort.  Lastly, I'm not ready for my parents to die.  I doubt I ever will be.