My Mom, Florence J Zavacky

It is so hard to describe the events of the last couple of weeks. My parents came to Omaha to visit for several days including Father's Day, leaving for home the following Monday. On the Friday of the same week, Bob, Karen and I headed to Indiana for my nephew's graduation, staying with my parents. With cousins and siblings, we planned how to celebrate my mother's upcoming 75th birthday. We had a lovely visit, and when we arrived home late Sunday evening I called my mom, thanked her, chatted with her a bit, and said 'talk to you tomorrow'. The next morning, she was being taken by ambulance to the hospital, suspected stroke. My dad found her, how long after our conversation had she fallen? The dr's found a triple stroke on both sides, recoverable... but suspected a fourth in her brain stem, which would be very bad news. They were correct. The next several days we watched my mom decline in the hospital, then to hospice. I cannot say enough about the wonderful care and compassion we found at the VNA Hospice in Porter County. Oh, overworked nurses, staying way past the end of their shift to chart because they did spend time taking good care of patients and families, along with their volunteer staff. The Pastor of my brother's church, Pastor Joseph Olefinski sustained us with his presence and prayer, and conducted services for my mom. I can't say enough about Moeller's Funeral home, their staff is outstanding. Family, friends and neighbors were there to support us, especially my dad.

The last days of my mother's life were filled with family and fun before events changed. During her hospital and hospice stay all gathered around her, sharing memories and prayer. Mom couldn't have written a better exit from this world. My wonderful husband, ever a rock for me, gave a beautiful eulogy... the honor given to the spouse who has endured the family the longest.

By now, most of us are aware that life does change in a heartbeat. Whole families on their way to Florida for vacation are wiped out in an instant by a careless trucker, or a stroke can end the life of the mother who was looking forward to the birth of the 14th grandchild or a granddaughter's wedding. All the more reason to be the best person you can, do the things you enjoy, and most of all, love and help each other through all of life's ups and downs.
Obituary