Friday, February 12, 2010

A time for goodbyes

We learned today that Mom’s liver is going into failure and she will soon drift off into a sleep-induced coma. We gathered around her tonight and all said our goodbyes and we had the Rabbi sing a special song to her. Mom was in and out while we were all saying our final thoughts but I just know she heard every bit of it and found the comfort she needed to go to her final resting place. I sit by her side as I type to ensure she knows she's not alone during this time.

The family is beginning to plan for the funeral. In keeping with Jewish tradition, the service will fall one-two days after the death and will be followed by sitting shiva. We suspect that will be sometime this coming week. Please keep checking the blog as this will be where we’ll share the details (date/time/place). Any family and friends are welcome to attend the service.

We can’t thank you enough for the outpours of love and support—it truly meant the world to my Mom to hear from all of her favorite people, and it certainly kept all of us going.

With love,

jen

10 comments:

Debbi, Artie and Colin said...

Sending our love and strength to you all!
Debbi Artie and Colin

MAggie Hunt said...

Sending prayers and support to all of you. Maggie and Chris Hunt

The Richardsons said...

So saddened to hear the latest update regarding a woman who has been so much to so many...a wife, a Mother, a grandmother, a friend, a sister, a daughter, a loving human being. While your family is not fortunate in your circumstances, you are fortunate in that you had the opportunity to share your final thoughts with Mrs. O. And as Jen said, I am certain she heard you. I cannot even imagine what you are experiencing and have experienced these past few weeks but I do know that Mrs. O felt all the love each of you offered. While it will be a void that will remain forever in your lives, I hope that the countless memories of her will begin lightening your heavy heart as time passes. Continued thoughts and prayers...

Cyn said...

Today, my heart is breaking. I can hardly see to type this my eyes are so full of tears. Kate (she will always be Growie to me) and I have been friends for almost 50 years. I have so many wonderful and fun memories and that is what I am trying to focus on, but it's not easy. My prayers are with you, Albert and your entire family. God bless you all.

Cynthia Whittler (she always call me "Cyn")

Debbie said...

To all of the Ostrich Family: We are finding it difficult to even attempt to convey are sadness and thoughts to all of you. We regret that we could not say our own goodbyes to our very beautiful friend, Kate and we will rely on you, Jen, once again to do this one last favor for us. We love you all and may God continue to give you the strength you will need in the days ahead. May she go quietly and peacefully and know that she was well loved by all.
Al and Debbie

Anonymous said...

To My Dearest Family - I don't even know where to begin. Kate has a special place in my heart and always will. I have the fondest memories of her love and support throughout my entire life. She has always been there for me and my sister. We will miss you so dearly Aunt Kate. I am so sad to lose you but know that you are and always will be held so dear in my heart. I ALWAYS smile and laugh out loud at many of our special times together - especially when you and Albert traveled with Dad and Dianne to visit me in Aspen. My prayers are with you that you go peacefully and my prayers are for Albert and all my dear cousins for peace and strength during such a sad time. Sooooo much love to you all. Sheryl

Debby said...

"What We Once Enjoyed And Deeply Loved We Can Never Lose, For All That We Love Deeply Becomes A Part Of Us." ~ Helen Keller

Anonymous said...

Dear Jen, Uncle Al, Jake and Shawn, Please tell Aunt Kate how much I love her. I'm so glad you are there with her and able to give her the peace and comfort she needs.
I know it won't be easy and all of us will never stop missing her. Remember though she would tell you to live, laugh and love just as my best friend told her husband before she left us.
My heart goes out to all of you and I will continue to pray for you to have strength and for Kate to have peace.
Love always, Janelle

Jacqui D'Ercole said...

My husband and I will forever have the memories of Kate tearing up the dance floor at our wedding. So much spirit and carefree joy! We are devastated by this latest news, and please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.

Jacqui (D'Ercole) and Nick Hagdorn

Jill Sockwell said...

"A well-lived life leaves beautiful treasures shining on our shore."

My deepest sympathies go out to you all.