Fireworks

For whatever reason I have never been a big fan of fireworks. Mom and Dad however love fireworks. No matter where they were for the fourth of July, they would find out where the biggest firework show was at and attended. Fortunately the staff at Saint Francis Peoria hospital helped carry on that tradition.

On July 3^rd there were fireworks being shown down the block from the hospital. When the staff heard how Mom loved fireworks they came in the evening to rearrange the room so Mom could the fireworks outside her window. Unfortunately they were hard to see, but every once in a while you could see a firework or two through the tree branches. As I saw Mom get excited by the few glimpses of fireworks, I started to get teary eye. I realized this could be the last time I watched fireworks with my mom. The nurse Jenny, leaned over and gave me a hug. I wiped the tears from my eyes and went back to helping Mom find the fireworks through the trees. Once the fireworks were done, we moved all the chords and equipment back so Mom could go back to bed and sleep. I didn’t sleep much that night as I thought of all the things I wish I would have done with my mom.

July 4^th was another party in Mom’s room. More family came to visit which we all appreciated. Mom was doing better and she was able to keep up with the conversations. She was definitely healing and it was great to see. July 4^th was the night for the big fireworks over the bridge in Peoria. On the other side of the floor Mom was on provided a great view of the display. Mom, Dad and I went to the other side to watch the fireworks. I have to admit they were quite impressive. Mom would comment about a few of them. Dad and I stood behind Mom holding hands and appreciating the family time together enjoying a simple activity. Life almost seemed back to normal. Because she was doing better that was the first night I did not stay with Mom, but went back to the family house with Dad.

I am still not a big fan of fireworks, but now when I see them I think of Mom and our last time doing something together as a family. I remember how happy she was to see the display and how Dad and I stood by to enjoy the moment together.