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 Dear Friends,
I am writing with a heavy heart to let you know that Diane is not doing well in her battle
with Multiple Sclerosis. Diane is now a resident of the Masonic Home in Bloomington,
Minnesota, an excellent facility at which we are hoping to stabilize the progression of
her disease. As tough a fighter as Diane is, the last six months have brought about a
substantial decline in her health, both physically and mentally. The disease is creating
lesions on the tissue within her brain, causing acute short term memory loss, difficulty
in concentration, confusion, and wide ranging mood swings. Physically, Diane requires 24
hour care and can not transfer, feed, or care for herself and needs assistance to dial the
telephone.But do not misinterpret my reason for writing. Diane is still fun to talk to,
aware of her situation, and enjoys talking with friends and family as much as possible. We
encourage you to call, or stop to visit her often, while keeping in mind that she may
discuss things which are not necessary true or accurate.
This has been a difficult transition for Bill and our family as we love Diane very much
and are struggling to cope with the reality that her health is failing rapidly and we are
unable to help her recover. We all appreciate deeply the words of support and
encouragement many of you have offered.
Tributes:
- Sadly, sooner than expected or we can ever accept, as the season turned on June
twenty-first, Diane left us. I wish I could have been as good to her as she was to me, but
the only recriminations should be toward a dreaded disease.
- We were both voracious readers, so one night we decided to have a 'name the books you've
read' contest. Several hours later . . . Diane won.
- So sad to read
your story. I lost my mother on the 10th. January also from M.S. They always
said it wasn’t terminal - I guess I’ve got news for them!! This last year was
very hard on all of us, but especially her. She too suffered bouts of dementia and lost so
much weight towards the end that she was unrecognizable.
As hard as it was to say goodbye, I truly feel in my heart
that she is in a better place, running, hugging and flying with the angels!!
I wish you only happier days.
Brenda
- I am sixteen years old and may not know the exact loss you have endured or are mourning,
but I may have a small idea. on Oct. 11, 1998, a day before my birthday, my father, Walter
Alesandro, died of cancer peacefully in our home. he was 46 years old and will never have
the chance to walk my sister down the aisle at her wedding. he lived a relatively short,
but wonderful life and was a perfect example of a role model. my father was taken care of
by hospice for only a short week after he got home from the hospital. within this time, I
experienced the horror of watching my father slowly diminish. I feel for you and hope that
these following words may be some help of easing your grief.
My life is just a weaving
between my God and me
I do not choose the colors, He worketh steadily
Oftimes he weaveth sorrow and I in foolish pride,
Forget he sees the upper, and I, the underside
Not till the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly
Will God unroll the canvas and explain the reasons why
The dark threads are as needful in the skillful Weaver's hand
As the threads of gold and silver, in the pattern he has planned
I will stop now, for the tears make it hard to see the keyboard.
With all my love
Nick
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