<p>This was a hard thread to read, as I went through this last year when my mom had emergency surgery and spent 5 weeks in ICU on life support before passing away almost a year ago. Multiple, multiple trips up to the NE to be there, take care of things, plan the funeral, ultimately disconnect the life support (that was horrible) and take care of my dad, who fell apart after she died. Then I had to take care of him, all his affairs and all the stuff after my mom’s death. Dad ended up in the hospital for 2 1/2 mos, and as a result of some of the treatment he ultimately required, he has little memory of last year. That is a mixed blessing.</p>
<p>My bro resurfaced after 15 yrs and has been a challenge, but my dad “thinks” he is being helpful. Sigh… Now my dad is going through his own health issues. Scheduled to have another procedure in a few weeks. Somewhere in all this, I had a business to run, family to take care of (thank heavens for a wonderful H), older s’s college stuff, then s’s illness ahd hospitalization this summer just before (literally, 3 days before) he headed off to college. Then, to lose my dog to CHF a few weeks ago… I need a break. </p>
<p>But somehow you just do it. Don’t know how, but you just do. Some of the stories above are truly heart-wrenching, and I truly sympathize with all of you.</p>