James passed away almost 1 month ago. In some ways, it seems as though it was yesterday and yet it also seems so long ago. Etta continues to grieve and certainly misses his presence, understandably. She talks often about how she "forgets" he isn't there anymore and will try and talk to him. At the same time, she is doing amazingly well. She told me that when she feels particularly lonely or sad, she will walk (wheel herself) to the parlor area where most of the residents congregate. She explained that she knows it is good for her to be around other people and to not be alone. I was really impressed with her theory because it is so true!
While Etta still talks about James, we have been able to talk about other subjects lately too. Initially, we only talked about James and memories she had of him and their life together. In the days and weeks after James died, Etta talked constantly about how he died and his burial. This has subsided somewhat as I believe she has come to terms with accepting that he really is gone (in as much as she can given her state of mind). Etta's tears are fewer and the laughter is returning. Etta says, "I can't just sit in my apartment and give up."
I'm really proud of Etta and her trust in me. While she is clearly unaware of my level of responsibility, she does aknowledge that I "take care of things" for her. She is always appreciative.
I continue to wait on the final autopsy report regarding the cause of death for James. I spoke to the medical examiner about 2 weeks ago at which point we were still waiting on the nueropathy results.
While Etta still talks about James, we have been able to talk about other subjects lately too. Initially, we only talked about James and memories she had of him and their life together. In the days and weeks after James died, Etta talked constantly about how he died and his burial. This has subsided somewhat as I believe she has come to terms with accepting that he really is gone (in as much as she can given her state of mind). Etta's tears are fewer and the laughter is returning. Etta says, "I can't just sit in my apartment and give up."
I'm really proud of Etta and her trust in me. While she is clearly unaware of my level of responsibility, she does aknowledge that I "take care of things" for her. She is always appreciative.
I continue to wait on the final autopsy report regarding the cause of death for James. I spoke to the medical examiner about 2 weeks ago at which point we were still waiting on the nueropathy results.