I arrived at the hospital at 3:30am Sat. morning to be with my mom. Two of my mothers sisters, my sister, my nephew and brother-in-law and I were all there in the room with my mom. When I arrived my mother was unconcious and had been since Friday morning. I held her hand at all times and rubbed her arm, heart and face. The Dr's made us wear gloves and gowns because the staph infection she had was quite contagious. I did at times kiss her little forhead and rub her face with my ungloved hand. I know she felt us all there in the room with her, loving her and supporting her in her final stage of life. I told her we were proud of her, that she fought hard but as much as her soul wanted to continue living on earth, her body was not as strong and that it was time for her to leave it behind in order to continue on. I told her that we would not be mad at her for letting go and again how proud we are of her for being the caring person she was and for leading the giving life she did.
My mother lay still breathing heavely...except for the two times I felt movement- an attempt to squeeze my hand back.
The infection in my mothers body was too much and with her weakened immune system, she could not fight anylonger.
Her breathing was steady until about 1pm Sat. afternoon, then her breath became slower and longer in between.
She didn't seem to be, and I pray she was not in any pain- we were alowed to press for morphine twice every 15 min. in order to help prevent her from suffering.
My mother took her last breath at 2:05pm Sat. January 17, 2004, at the age of 63. Ten days shy of her 64th birthday.

My sister and I have been busy planning the viewing and services arrangements, as my mother did not have any in place. The first viewing and prayer service is being held in Virginia on Monday, Jan. 19, 2004. The next viewing and service is being held in Lima Ohio on Wed. Jan. 21, 2004. Barrial will be held on the morning of Thurs. Jan. 22, 2004.

My mothers passing has been the most difficult experience I have ever had and ever believe to have. I am grateful however that I was able to be with my mother, holding her hand as she took in her last breath. She was afraid of passing, and I hope that the love in the room, and the love of everyone who knew her helped calm her fear and move forward with no worry for those who remain.

I am most grateful that my mother is no longer in pain.

Helen Joan Keiffer Barth McCrea.
January 27, 1940-January 17, 2004.

Rest In Peace Mommy.