Firsts and Lasts — A Tribute
In January 2023, my grandma was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. On December 3, 2023, she departed this world for whatever lies beyond. During her final year, I was her caregiver. I went to every appointment. When she was admitted to the hospital, I took my laptop and worked from her room so that I’d be able to catch everything her caregivers said and advocate for whatever she needed. When she was admitted to inpatient hospice care in her final days, I moved in with her. It was a bittersweet year, knowing how quickly the end was coming, but filling our time with as much meaning as we could.
Today I’m reflecting on the fact that she was there for so many of my “firsts” in life, and I have spent the past year being there for her “lasts.”
Grandma was integral to a number of my “firsts” in life. Here are a few…
My first American Girl Doll. (And my second and third.) She really spoiled us grandkids every Christmas. Felicity was the first one I wanted. I remember the joy that year opening that gift, and then all of the books and clothes to go with her. I still have that doll.
My first Michael Crichton. She encouraged me to read Jurassic Park. I loved it. I read everything he wrote. We’d both read them and discuss them. I wouldn’t say that she sparked my love of reading, but she certainly stoked the flame and encouraged…
