Dr John M

cardiac electrophysiologist, cyclist, learner

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Goodbye Mom–Thanks

November 28, 2011 By Dr John

Joan Evelyn Mandrola Jan 14 1939 - Nov 24 2011

So Mom…

Your love and devotion to me approached infinity.

As a younger, I longed for nothing.

You loved me—whether I was on a podium or not. This was a mother’s love. Your love.

I knew you cared about my achievements, but now I understand: you loved seeing me happy.

Thanks for that.

You waited up for me at night, not to catch me doing silly stuff, but rather to make sure I was safe. Thanks for that too Mom.

Hey Mom…

…I was happy that I had you. I should have told you that more.

You sacrificed for me. You didn’t buy enough for yourself. How could you? You were too busy buying stuff for us kids. I could have attended a state school; but then I may not have met the mentors that tipped me into believing that I was smart enough to understand biology. You didn’t go to exotic places with Dad—unless Cooperstown NY counts. Geez, Mom, you should have gone more places.

Hey Mom…

…Thanks for giving me so much.

…Thanks for loving Dad. I loved having both of you.

…The things you bought me were nice, but mostly, I appreciated your love. Some might find it hard to quantify the importance of a mother’s love, but my gut tells me it’s mighty important. Thanks.

…Why were you so stoic and graceful–even in the face of those big bad tumors?

Hey Mom…

…I am so sorry that Cancer made you hurt so much. We all cried; but all you said was, “I was hoping for better results from the biopsy.” Me too Mom; I wanted it to be better news.

…I miss you. I miss your grace. I miss your upbeat outlook. I miss your voice,  your dinners, your smile, your questions about the kids.

I am who I am because of you and Dad.

Thanks Mom.

I love you right back.

Though I miss you tons already, it’s really good that you are no longer fearful or in pain.

Rest Mom. Rest.

You earned it sooooooo much.

JMM

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Related posts:

  1. A different place
  2. Happy Thanksgiving
  3. Mother’s Day…
  4. Goodbye Jude…

Filed Under: Reflection

John Mandrola, MD

Welcome, Enjoy, Interact. john-mandrola I am a cardiac electrophysiologist practicing in Louisville KY. I am also a husband to a palliative care doctor, a father, a bike racer, and a regular columnist at theHeart.org | Medscape

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Find me on theheart.org | Medscape Cardiology

  • Electrophysiology commentary on Medscape/Cardiology

Mandrola on Medscape

  • My Medscape column on general medical matters

For patients...Educational posts

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  • Adding a new verb to doctoring: To deprescribe is to do a lot
  • AF ablation — 2015 A Cautionary Note
  • AF Ablation in 2012–An easier journey?
  • Atrial Flutter — 15 facts you may want to know.
  • Benign PVCs: A heart rhythm doctor’s approach.
  • Caution with early Cardioversion
  • Decisions of 2 low-risk cases of PAF
  • Defining success in AF ablation in 2014
  • Four commonly asked questions on AF ablation
  • Inflammation and AF — Get off the gas
  • Ten things to expect after AF ablation
  • The medical decsion as a gamble
  • The most important verb in our health crisis
  • Wellness Requires Ownership

 

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