Evelyn, you're all in my thoughts.  May it be a peaceful ending.
Gwen

Hi Evelyn,

You and Peter have done an exemplary
job caring for Ida. I know it's a sad time
for you but in some ways I suspect you
may be feeling some relief. My thoughts
and prayers are with you.

Rosie's condition is deteriorating also
and I would be surprised if she makes it
to the end of the year. It may seem callous
to those who have not experienced the
destruction of a loved one caused by AD
but we look forward to the final call.

(((((((Evelyn and Ida)))))))))))

Songbird

You and Ida will be in my prayers.

You are in my prayers, Evelyn. Reading all that you have done for Ida (and for
many on this group with your support) I know that you have been fantastic for
her. She will soon be at peace.
-steve

My thoughts are with you, your husband, and Ida.  Your story of Ida's
journey  has made us feel part of her world and we thank you for that.
Ruth

Evelyn

Difficult to know what to say.  You must know how we thank you for
sharing your journey with Peter & Ida.  My prayers are with you all.
Sincerely
Florence

Evelyn, it's really OK to just let those things wash over you,
let the feelings out.  It's all part of grieving, which starts
when you actually realise that your loss is imminent, not when it
happens.

It's nice to know that she's not feeling any pain, and that she
is getting good care.  Your efforts before she needed full time
professional care made a big difference.

I'm praying for a peaceful passage.

Oh, Evelyn, my heart does go out to you. I know so well the feelings
you are having. I, too, cried, when I recieved the call from the NH
about my mom's passing being somewhat imminent. Then I cried again when
I arrived and she looked so bad. We truly are never really quite ready
to say goodbye, no matter how much we think we are.BTW, Ida's breathing
patterns are probably all part of the dying process, not so much a
"gasping" for breath as just a part of the process, as the body shuts
down, and the lungs more and more inactive. (the side effect of the
morphine drops she is recieving - supressing respiration)
    ( I learned so much from the group's FAQ links to the end-of-life
issues; the breathing patterns will give some real clues as to where
you are on that sacred bridge between life and death--that and the
darkening of the hands and feet, as circulation slows. Remember that
hearing is that last sense to leave...and talk to Ida of all she's
meant to you--and share memories of her- hold her hand and sit right in
front of her as you speak, assuring her it's OK for her to go, that you
and Peter will miss her, but that you will be all right. You may also
want to review her life for her in her final hours. )
    Evelyn, you and Peter have always done your best for Ida and I'm
sure she knows it. You have been ardent caregivers for her, and she's
lucky to have you by her side as she makes her transition. You are all
in my prayers as you complete your journey together. Wishing for a
peaceful end for Ida, Lynn

Ronny:
Evelyn,prayer said for you,Ida & Peter.

Evelyn, my thoughts have been straying back to you all day.  Knowing death
is a part of life doesn't make it any easier.

Karen