Mom Fell.

She tripped and fractured her pelvic bone. The ambulance took her to the emergency room of the nearest hospital, where she was admitted for a few nights and later transferred for a couple of weeks to a rehab facility. We are thankful. It will heal. She will be alright.

Friends and family call with concern. We assure them. “It will heal. She will be alright.” We then politely inquire about their families, their holidays.

Yes, it will be alright. “This too shall pass.” Yet, it is not alright. After over 35 years of making the annual trek up north for Thanksgiving—this year they were not here. Using all coping mechanisms available, denial, justification, etc. etc, the fact still remains—my parents are getting older. They are vulnerable.

I have shared the emotions of friends going through similar and far worse situations. They try to be strong as they travel with their mothers and fathers through illnesses, fractures and loss. I am empathetic. I really do feel their pain. I knew one day it would be our turn. I just wasn’t ready.

laura@realwomenwin.com