Letter to my mom

Dear Mom,

Has it really been six years since you’ve been gone? I remember it like yesterday where I would be making the drive to the nursing facility for my weekly visit. We would end up having lunch or dinner together while watching Law & Order: SVU (I haven’t watched an episode since because that’s our thing). Or if it was nice enough outside, I would take you out of the nursing home and down the hill to the Dockside restaurant where you would order your Dry Martini…extra dry. It was either that or a White Russian, which I selfishly enjoyed more (can you blame me?).

I miss those days and the future memories we could have made; family vacations, mother-son dance at my wedding, being a grandmother, among other things. But I am also glad you are no longer suffering from Huntington’s Disease. To be honest, that was the hardest part of the visit because I knew there was nothing I could do to make the disease go away. And knowing in the back of my mind that could be me one day made things even scarier.

However, you did teach me a lot about how to live life and I am forever thankful for that. As I saw you fight back against Huntington’s Disease, you also stayed positive and kept your sense of humor. Whether it was making a funny joke or acting like the mayor of your floor – you truly lived in the moment. No matter how tough life got you never gave up. 

I know our family was dealt a bad hand, but it taught me a lot about appreciating the little things in life and not taking anything for granted. Our family stuck together through the hardship and became closer because of it.  

I will continue to fight against Huntington’s Disease until there is an effective treatment or cure. I know you would do the same if you were in my shoes.

Thank you for watching over me and reminding me you’re always with me through little signs here and there.

Love,
Seth