"I knew I had to be by my mom's side as much as possible as she began her journey of treating cancer and living with dementia. Her love was constant and knew no bounds From July 2024 to July 2025, I spent a week or two every month by my mom's side, giving her the presence and attention that she had so freely and lovingly given me all my life. I realized that spending as much time with her was not just about helping her with my presence during this difficult time; it was about honoring her for all the times that she had been there for me."
"A scenic train ride and a lasting memory During our two-hour layover before the return trip, we explored the towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, had a bite to eat, and enjoyed each other's company. It was the only trip we had taken together as mother and adult son. This moment with my mom meant so much to me because it brought her joy to see a wish come true, and I was able to honor her with a simple yet meaningful gesture."
"Every morning when I would wake up, I would walk up to my mom's bed, say good morning, and kiss her on the forehead. Two weeks after I arrived for the final time to be next to mom, I held her hand and told her I loved her. She gave her final breath and passed. I will cherish that moment forever - that I was able to be present and carry her memory for the rest of my life."
A son prioritized being present for his mother after simultaneous diagnoses of cancer and dementia, traveling from July 2024 to July 2025 and spending one to two weeks each month at her side. He framed that time as honoring her lifelong, unconditional love by giving the presence and attention she had given him. The pair shared a single meaningful trip—a scenic train layover visiting McCaysville and Copperhill—that brought her joy. When doctors said cancer had spread and only weeks remained, he stayed for the final two weeks, held her hand as she died, and cherishes having been present at her passing.
Read at Business Insider
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