Our momma officially left this earth on Friday, July 10th, 2020 at 2:22 p.m.

She was surrounded by so much love. Preston and I held her hands as she took her last earthly breaths. Wade and my lifelong best friend, Holly, who my momma adored were in the room supporting us. Her brother arrived as she was transitioning. It was so beautiful. So gentle. So loved. Every minute.

I held her as she left this earth and took her last breaths the same way she held me as I took my first. She was so beautiful and peaceful. There was no pain.

The house was filled with family and friends who have carried us through this journey. We are so lucky to be loved by so many. I know how happy it makes my momma to know her babies are taken care of by so many beautiful souls.

She did not want a funeral, but we will celebrate her life together when the time is right. It won’t be for several months at least. I promise to update you all when the time comes.

Obviously, it goes without saying that we are truly devestated. We are shattered. We are broken. We are lost. We are hurt. But, because of her, we are also strong. Through this experience, my momma taught me that I can live my worst nightmare, and I will surivive. She taught me that death is a part of life, and it can be a very beautiful experience. This past week while she was home on hospice has been a bizarrely joyful time. The house has been filled everyday with people who love my mom. We listened to her music, and we sang so many songs to her. We laughed and told stories about my mom. She was surrounded by flowers and pictures of her and her adventures. I made sure every person who entered my mom’s sacred transition space saw her for who she was. I told every nurse and caregiver about my momma. I wanted them to know what we were about to lose; to see the fuller picture. To see my momma.

We made sure she was literally never alone. I slept on the floor of her office next to her. We had round the clock care. Nurses and caregivers who sat next to her while we slept. We had everything she wanted. We got to be her family and we didn’t have to worry about anything other than loving her and making her comfortable.

My momma left this world in style. She wouldn’t have it any other way.

She fought so hard. We are so proud of her. Her journey here on earth is over. She won her fight. She is at peace.

No more pain. She is home.

Sending you love,

Elyse

You can call or text me anytime. I might not answer, but please leave a message. (805) 404-9853.