Birthday thoughts - Sharon Tideswell's Blog

In just a few days time it will be my mum's 71st birthday, an event which brings times of reflection and gratitude for the whole family.

On 19th September 2007 mum was taken seriously ill with acute pancreatitis caused by gallstones. She had gone from being perfectly well at 5PM to critically ill by 11PM. She remained in intensive care on a ventilator for six months, and spent a further three months in hospital, with two further returns to ICU and HDU. I have to say it was the most stressful and traumatic nine months of our lives and a complete rollercoaster ride of emotions. We soon got to learn that one good day didn't mean recovery, and just two weeks before she came home we had one of the most horrendous days of all.

Against all the odds, when doctors had, on many occassions, prepared us for the worst, mum made it through a very ravaging illness. We don't know how she was so strong, or why, when she was so close to death, she kept on fighting, but thankfully she did.

As a family I think we still suffer some form of PTSD. Beneath the surface, that trauma is still there. There are always tears when we talk about or reflect the events of that time. But it also taught us to make the most of life, to not get bogged down with things that just don't matter.

Mum became something of a celebrity at the local hospital, just about every doctor and nurse knew all about her and were amazed at her recovery. She is our star too...

but just what do you buy a celebrity for her birthday??? ;)

Happy Birthday Mum xxx

Robert L. Hinshaw Date: 8/3/2010 5:23:00 PM Sharon: So happy to hear that your Mum is recovering! Keep on giving her your love and just simply holding her hand would lift her spirits. Also, with your creative talent, I'll bet you could come up with a few lines of poetry to express your love for her - give it a try! - bob h PS: I posted a blog you might be interested in taking a look at and since it is in a humourous vein, your Mum might enjoy it as well. Login to Reply

Sharon Tideswell Date: 7/24/2010 3:12:00 AM Thank you Phyllis :) Nikko, you were a great support at the time, with all of your prayers and good wishes, as you are now & I thank you from my heart for your wonderful friendship (not forgetting Ninna too). I passed on everyone's good wishes to mum and we both send hugs and smiles back to you all :) Login to Reply

Kabuteng P.Ink K. Date: 7/20/2010 10:24:00 PM Super Birthday Hugs for your mom, Sharon ^_^! And to you too! I can remember how devastating that period was for you, but I sure am so thankful that your mom is as strong as she is, and that you all kept so strong for her... amazing how she was able to go through her illness--she had amazing support for sure! & she is a wonder woman of course! And I agree with everybody else-- I think your mom has already the best in life, in that she has family and children like you-- so I guess in the end you know in your heart what is best for her ^_^ and I am just soo happy for you & your family that you all pulled through that difficult time in your lives :) Will keep praying for her health--Happy Birthday, Sharon's mum ^_^!! & hugs to you again for being such an amazing daughter!--nikko :) Login to Reply

Phyllis Babcock Date: 7/20/2010 12:01:00 PM I think the most special gift to your MOM would be the gift of you. Spend the day, take her for lunch, buy her a rose and tell her you love her. She knows you do but as a mother it is nice to hear your kids say it. So glad all turned out for your mom. Take care. God Bless Phyl Login to Reply

Sharon Tideswell Date: 7/19/2010 11:45:00 PM Thank you Barbara :) Linda, I'm so sorry about your mum. I'm sure she's still with you and she'll be so happy for you right now. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. James, you're a sweetheart and your words are so kind. Hehe Lewis' life is one long stand up comedy. Thanks for his limerick. We will have a great day, thank you :) Andrea, you're right, it is all good advice, and of course I already knew what was important. I haven't written much about mum & I just felt the need to write something. Although it was too traumatic to think about at the time, I wish I had kept a diary through her illness. Yes we are so lucky and thankful for her recovery. And please do put up your new bio soon :) Login to Reply

Andrea Dietrich Date: 7/19/2010 7:05:00 PM Everyone here gave you good advice. I couldn't say anything better than they did! Your picture and bio are lovely. I keep forgetting to put up a new one for myself! What a wonderful thing for your family how your mom recovered. You have much to be thankful for. LUv,Andrea Login to Reply

Linda-Marie Sweetheart Date: 7/19/2010 8:46:00 AM LUV.. u don't even have to buy it Sharon.. just continue to show and give her LUV.. my Mom passed away at 74 with pancreatic cancer and it was a horrible time in my life yet my Mom and I were always so close and she fought as long as she could.. I believe when its time.. its time.. your Mum is still needed in this life so she has been given more time to be with her family who loves her so much.. treasure each day my friend.. I miss mine so much all the time.. my sons and fiance' keep me going strong.. and God.. prayers to u and your family today Sharon.. with luv.. Login to Reply

Barbara Gorelick Date: 7/19/2010 8:38:00 AM You spend the day with her..thats what she really wants..BG Login to Reply