Ellen had already reduced her working hours to care for her mother.
The arrangement was becoming difficult to maintain.
“I thought Evelyn would enjoy spending time with Mom,” she explained. “I never expected her to take on so much.”
“My mother has never been very good at admitting when she needs help.”
Ellen gave a tired laugh.
“Neither has mine.”
We spent the next half hour discussing possible support arrangements.
I encouraged Ellen to speak with Margaret’s medical team about suitable care services and additional assistance.
I couldn’t personally solve everything from three hours away.
But I
could help her find resources and make sure neither elderly woman felt obligated to do more than she safely could.
Before hanging up, I asked one final question.
“Do you think Margaret would want to see me?”
Ellen’s voice softened.
“Laura, she’s been hoping you’d visit for years.”
Two weeks later, Mom and I made the trip together.
