My dear wife Debbie died last Thursday morning, aged 60. We are of course heartbroken, but Debbie is now at peace. Debbie was initially diagnosed with Parkinson's / Parkinsonism this time 4 years ago, with diagnosis changing to MSA 2 years ago, although I strongly suspected MSA a year into initial Parkinson's diagnosis.
We have a lot to be thankful for with how Debbie went in the end. She always wanted to die at home, and she got her wish. It all happened very quickly and peacefully in the end. On the Monday evening Debbie developed a bad wheeze (not for the the first time), but that night this wheeze developed into a bad rattle. And again this was not new for Debbie. But this time, she could not clear it. On Tuesday afternoon she fell into a deep sleep, and the chest infection really took hold with high temperature, low oxygen and sleep turned more to unconscious state. Debbie was peaceful throughout.
MSA Trust (Katie & Dmelza) were of invaluable help in the early days. In last 6 months, having the support of our local hospice palliative care nurses made a huge positive difference. Debbie was only sick in bed for 2 days, although her initial symptoms probably started 7 to 8 years ago.
We gave Debbie the most wonderful send off at the weekend, and the love and support we have recieved from friends, family, neighbours and our local community has been overwhelming and humbling.
I'll stay on being a member here and hopefully can offer some little bits of help and advice from our experience.
Declan
Written by
leroybrown
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Hi Declan, so sorry to hear that Debbie has passed away. Thinking of you and your family at this sad time. But so glad she was peaceful and was able to be at home. Thank you for sharing. Love Rosie
I am so sad to hear of the passing of your beloved Debbie. She was clearly a much valued member not only of your family but also of your wider community.
Your own value to us forum members is great and I’m so glad that you are going to stick around and continue to share your knowledge and experience.
You gave Debbie the sort of closure and send off that I suspect many of us (myself included) would wish for when the time comes. My thoughts are with you and your family and thank you for sharing with us.
So sorry about Debbie, but happy for you all that her death was so peaceful. I think we can all empathise and hope the end will be peaceful for our loved ones x
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss of your dear wife Debbie thinking of you at this sad time. So pleased she had her wish and she died peacefully at home. Wishing you and all your family all the best to get through your loss.
Declan, Thank you for sharing your sad news with us. Such a beautiful tribute. We share your sadness. Debbie was unfortunate (as is my wife) to have a 'run-in' with MSA, as we know there will only be one winner. But she was blessed to have been loved and cared for by you and the family. So glad that the inevitable end was peaceful! Take care of yourself and enjoy remembering your happy years together.
Debbie had the best possible journey with this disease. I very much appreciate your description of her final days and happy to know that you will continue helping and supporting members on this forum. So sorry for the loss of your dear wife.
Thank you for sharing Declan and I'm so very sorry for your loss. I hope now that Debbie is at peace that you and your family can also find peace and remember the wonderful times you shared as a family. They can't ever be taken from you. Look after yourself.
I'm so sorry for the loss of your wife. Her passing seems to replicate that of my dearest friend. After watching this dreadful illness take hold of our loved ones. I think we must be grateful for a peaceful passing ♥️
Sorry for your loss, I'm sure Debbie was looked after by yourself and those who helped to the best ability and that you made the last years of this TERRIBLE condition as comfortable as possible. Deepest condolences.
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