Grandma Ginny

Last Spring Jeff's grandma was diagnosed with cancer in her jaw. She is 88. The only place that would do the required surgery is in Baltimore. 3 hours from her home. After her initial surgery she went into a skilled nursing facility. Thankfully just about 30 minutes from her home. Jeff has been beside her every step of the way. He was with her on her initial surgery and her countless doctor visits back to Baltimore. He has talked, e-mailed, texted the doctors, surgeons, physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist more than I am sure he can even remember. Mind you to do all of this has been no small feat. He travels 1 1/2 hrs to get grandma, 3 hours to Baltimore for her surgery and doctor visits, 3 hours back home, and then the 1 1/2 hours back to our house. All in a day. He not only has been her chauffer but has overseen every piece of her care and medical needs.

A couple weeks ago Grandma needed another surgery to patch up her lip. Jeff graciously took Grandma to Baltimore, paced during the 6-7 hours of surgery only to be followed by 2 more shorter surgeries within a 3 day span. Jeff ultimately stayed 10 days in Baltimore before bringing Grandma back home and getting her settled in a skilled nursing facility until she is able to go home.

Last night we went to see Grandma. It was great to see her. Great to see how well her face does look. Great to see her being just a little bit onry. But as I sat there what I witnessed was more than I bargained for that day. I witnessed a man gently rubbing his hands across his fragile grandma's face. I witnessed a man being so patient and so loving when he had to repeat himself over and over again because his grandma's memory is failing. I witnessed a man get fired up and demanding the nurses read the doctor's orders upon discovering they weren't taking care of grandma the way they needed to. I witnessed a man no matter how tiring and exhausting and difficult this journey has been love his grandma more than anything else. I am so thankful he has been able to be there with her.

Grandma, may God Bless you and give you many more days, months, years with us.