My Mom had been diagnosed with CHF, only 25% of her heart was
functioning. Mom had been admitted to a nursing home, the skilled unit. I went to see her last Saturday, and we had a great visit, she was looking better and actually ate some of her lunch.
Monday, I started a new job as a nightshift charge nurse for a LTC/skilled facility. I quit the 12 hour night shift job, due to 12 hour shifts just wearing me out. I quess my 54 year old body just couldn't handle it. My new job is 8 hour night shifts, with every Fri and Sat off. I'm going through orientation right now, two days on days, two on evenings, then two on night shift. Great pay, quick start benefits, fantastic staff. I have a feeling I will love this job!
Well, I went to my second orientation day, yesterday, eager to work with the west wing nurse. Having a great morning, when I got a page. My husband was on the phone, he told me my Mom was back in the hospital, with swallow breathing. The doctor didn't think she would make it through the day. Work was so understanding, they told me that my job would still be here when I was ready to come back. To take care of myself and my family.
When my husband arrived at work to pick me up, he gave me the bad news that Mom had just passed away. We spent the day with family making the arrangements and comforting each other. Saturday our family and close friends are having a "Celebration of Mom's Life".
I'm not at work today, alittle stressed, because we really need my paycheck. I am thinking about going back to work tomorrow and Friday, since the service is on Saturday. Not sure if I'll make through work without crying, though. I certainly don't want to cry in front of co-workers. That would be so unprofessional!
To add to the big changes my son will be moving into student housing next week, now I'll join the ranks of empty nester. He is my youngest, my baby. I feel sad, angry, it's an odd feeling hard to explain right now and wondering what other changes are to come.
