My Dearest Dolly has Passed

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My heart was saddened tonight when I read that one of my favorites has passed. She was a delightful soul. Spent many hours with her when she was my client. When her health was failing, and she could no longer live on her own, she moved to an assisted living facility. It is the same facility that my mother lives in. She was reluctant to move there and I tried to ease her fears about the place. Moving out of a place you called your home is so difficult. I had to pack her up and go through her treasures. We talked about so many things. It was heartwarming to hear her stories. Because she had to share a room with another resident, space was an issue and she had to leave many of her things behind. Her family took her belongings with them. Other things were brought to the local landfill. Years of memories gone in a flash. I visited Dolly as often as I could. This of course was problematic due to my mother living in the same building. Jealous tension arose from both of them. I had to choose my mother over Dolly and I know that it was hard for her to accept. My last visit with her was one that I'll never forget. Saddened me to see her in such poor health. Her memory was failing. She had a hard time remembering me. She couldn't say my name. But, there were moments when I thought she remembered little things. At the end of the visit, I gave her a hug and kiss and went upstairs to visit my mother. Upon my departure, Dolly motioned for me to come over and sit and visit with her. She had forgotten that I had been there just a few minutes ago. Broke my heart. Gave her another kiss and hug and said I would be back. Sadly, that was the last time I saw this wonderful lady. I will miss her dearly.