Short Story

That Mother has a really keen sense of humor. However, this does bring a thought to mind. How would you prefer to go? Would you like your family and/or friends around you, or would you prefer to go solo?
 

It would be very sad if we made it known that we wished to die alone.

I guess most of us would like to be near a loved one in the final stages of life.

To hold a hand even if they appear to be oblivious to your presence is the last thing you can do for a person.


Your question reminded me of another story (which could be true).


It was a busy morning at the clinic, about 8:30, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He said he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.

On exam, it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, I asked him if he had another doctor's appointment this morning,
as he was in such a hurry.

The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I inquired as to her health.

As we talked, I asked if she would be upset if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in three years now.

I was surprised, and asked him, “And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?” He smiled as he patted my hand and said:

“She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is."

.
 

Sadly, now that so many people are living longer and longer, there is so much dementia of one kind or another. You hope it never happens, but I know a few people in this tragic situation.
On dying alone [or with others] I think it would be better to have family or friends around you. Not something we get to choose however [usually.]
 
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