Ramblings Of The Farmers Wife!

 Dealing with Illnesses and Death

 I was born with an unnoticed heart defect until seven days old, surprised medical caregivers, and lived through a blockage in my aorta.  I had open-heart surgery and have thrived. I have been able to have a family of my own.  I can remember my mom telling me that she would sit with me at Primary Children’s hospital and think about how grateful she was that my problems were not like others there. I never really understood what she meant until I was thankful that my daughter’s issues were not like others. The timing of my condition was not great as my parents had four other children at home ranging from age two to eight.

The Family Proclamation to the World teaches us “that family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His Children.” Illnesses, disability, and death were intended to be shared within families. Those are some of the hardest things we will face in this life, and I know without the love and support from my family, I would not have been able to make it through some of my trials, especially with my daughter.

 I consider my daughter to be a miracle. We still do not know the cause or reasons for her health problems. It had to do with vomiting. She would quit breathing whenever she vomited and would need to be resuscitated. It happened ten times before she had surgery to prevent her from vomiting. Since that time, she has endured many surgeries and had several different health problems. I can remember praying 100’s of times a day while my daughter was an infant that she would live and that she would grow and have a life of her own. I was lucky I have a big family, and someone was always with my daughter and me day and night. As my daughter has grown, I know that Heavenly Father knows her by name, and he has big plans for her. Through all her struggles, she has become strong and independent.

Death losing a loved one or facing death oneself is one of the most challenging things we face in this life. Some of us know about Eternal life and know that we will reunite with our loved ones. Others do not. It is still exceedingly difficult. Recently I lost two uncles. Both deaths were unexpected. It was sad, and I will miss them, but the most challenging part is watching their family grieve. The scripture Mosiah 18:9 asks us if we are willing” to mourn with those that mourn and comfort those that stand in need of comfort.” What are some ways that we can do that? You could share positive memories of the person, help with childcare, cleaning, and any other needs they need. I know for my Aunt, having us their helping greet guests, receive meals, and keep track of the names of those who came was extremely helpful.  Weeks after the funeral having the list of names helped her to be able to send Thank You cards.