A post that has been waiting to be written

I don't too often post about "real" issues in my life. That said, it is time to post about something that is affecting my entire family right now.

Our mom is very ill. She has been in the hospital since the beginning of the month, and has now been in ICU for a week and two days. I cannot go in to great detail, except to say it's one step forward and 1/2 step back most days... with yesterday / last night / early this morning being a full step or two backwards. It has gotten to the point that we are telling our out of town siblings that it might be time for a visit. "Not to say good-bye, but to lend a hand with the good vibes." (These are my sister's words. I'm plagiarizing.... but I'm honest!)

It is so hard to watch your parent become so very frail. Things will be going along fairly well for a day or two, and then BAM. They start to spiral again. And it all happens so quickly.

My family would appreciate any prayers you could send in her honor. Her name is Helen. She and my father have been married 58 years. I've known her personally for 43 years, and I love her very, very much. (Even if we do drive each other to the brink of insanity! Isn't that the beauty of Mother / Daughter relationships?)

Please, even if you are not a praying person, keep her in your good thoughts. A karma boost would be most appreciated. Because Karma? May owe me a few good deeds right now.