Last night we were all busy, watching the England game.
What a cracker!
Now, I’m no footy fan, but when it comes to international tournaments like this, the patriotism kicks in and I have to sneak a peak at the results mid game, or secretly actually watch the whole thing!
Pops is alone at the moment, as Mum is eagerly awaiting the arrival of grandchild number four at my brother’s place.
He told me he’d be going to watch the match at my cousin’s house.
No worries. At least he wouldn’t be on his own.
As I mentioned before, that match was just amazing! Tension beyond belief! And it ended up in extra time, followed by penalties, and at the very last kick and save, we WON!
The country went crazy. The first time England had gone through on penalties in the World Cup. Ever!
And by the time all the coverage was winding down, it was past 10 pm.
Whenever my mum is away, Pops calls me, or messages me to let me know he is on his way home from the yoga classes he teaches, or that he has arrived home safely.
I waited a while, left him a message, and drifted off to sleep.
Morning came, and as I checked my phone, it struck me that Pops hadn’t called, messaged or anything.
Strange.
Not to worry. He may have just been tired so went straight to bed.
Then I checked his WhatsApp status. It showed he hadn’t looked at his messages since before 8pm the night before.
That was a bit concerning. He will always check that before retiring for the night.
I called the home land line. No answer.
Okay, still things could be okay. He might be in the shower or maybe doing his prayers.
After a few moments of holding myself back, I called his mobile.
It rang for a while but then he answered. Thank God.
But with a very weak voice.
That’s not my Pops…
“Hello Beta, sorry, I didn’t call you last night, I was in hospital…”
Wait – WHAT???
Apparenty he’d been en route to my cousin’s house, and experienced extreme dizziness and sickness. He’d stopped the car, vomited, then continued the journey, where his stomach began to cramp continuously.
Now, my Pops doesn’t complain about his own discomfort at all, heck, when he was suffering a heart attack, he didn’t allow the doctor to call an ambulance from his local GP surgery, instead, saying, “Don’t worry, I’ll just walk back home and do it myself”… whilst having a heart attack!
But this time it was bad, so my cousin called the ambulance and they admitted him for a few hours. There were ECG’s and heart check ups, blood tests and all mapper of investigations.
Thankfully it all came back clear, though his pain hadn’t subsided in his abdomen. He was diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis. So a horrible tummy bug, that may be from a germ in his gut, or eating contaminated food somewhere.
But I was devastated this morning.
- Why hadn’t I been called?
- I was nowhere near him
- What if something had happened to him?
Then I was equally thankful.
- He didn’t want me to be contacted late at night – what would I have done, other than rush over, causing more worry, on a long distance drive?
- We are lucky to have such an amazing extended family – even though I am not there, Pops doesn’t want me rushing over, he is with my cousin, who is like another daughter to him, and her own sons and daughter-in-law are with him 24/7
- Nothing serious did happen to him. I know he is groggy from the morphine shots for the pain, but aside from that and not being able to eat properly yet, he is fine. The test results showed a healthy heart and all other organs, so something to be hugely thankful for.
It’s equally tough for my mum, brother and sister-in-law. They are even further than me. We all worry, constantly, but thank heavens for those angels we have to rely upon.
I’ve spoken to Pops several times over the day, banned him from taking the Yoga classes for a few days – the students can manage without him for a while – and he is staying with my cousin for a good few days yet. I’ll go and see him on the weekend, as he told me not to rush over. In fact, if I go now, he’ll tell me off!
Mum has been in touch a few times too. We are mutually reassuring each other that he is fine – a little weak, but fine.
My cousin, her daughter-in-law and my other cousin have all called me to convince me he is okay too.
I know, deep down, that he is okay, but it really hit home today.
Our oldies, they aren’t immortal, as much as we’d like them to be… Pops and Mum, they are my inspirations. They are the reason I am here, and responsible for making me the person I am. I love them so much. I can’t bear the thought of life without them.
And so, I leave you with this thought:
Love your elders now. Respect them now. Talk to them now.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, when the only love you can show is flowers on a gravestone, the only respect you can show is remembrance services, and the only talk you can have consists of their memories…
Peace out Peeps. Go, hug your loved ones NOW!
But I Smile Anyway... 
Jul 07, 2018 @ 15:16:05
Your Pops sound fiercely independent, which is refreshing – not many are at that age.
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Jul 07, 2018 @ 15:17:09
My Pops is a true inspiration 😍
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Jul 07, 2018 @ 03:37:29
The concluding part of the post has me reminiscing but I’m always going to be thankful for life and grateful for the memories created . I know that feeling of getting worried then relaxed. Glad to know your dad is fine too.
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Jul 07, 2018 @ 08:05:29
Thank you lovely. 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 23:11:52
I still think mom would like that or do that after losing her 9 years agp this month. So do not put off have no regrets
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Jul 07, 2018 @ 08:00:24
Thank you. No regrets indeed 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 21:57:14
There is definitely a generational thing going on here too, I think. My in laws live in Hereford (so 3 – 4 hours drive from us) and my father in law has been really ill on and off for some time now. They are dreadful at telling us when he takes a turn for the worse – when they lived in Lake district & he was rushed into hospital for the first time, he was given last rights before m-in-law called! A couple of weeks ago he had a stroke….no call until next day. They won’t change so we just have to make sure hubby & kids visit regularly (me when I can!). Hope your dad OK – how is he feeling? – and lets hope that England give him a good game to watch tomorrow! x
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 22:01:57
Thank you Claire! I’ll never stop calling them… And I can tell from tones if things are not what they seem… But they definitely don’t like to worry, you’re right!
He’s a lot better but very weak still… Staying with my cousin for a while so I’ll see him soon xxx
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:34:51
Hun. I know exactly. About 2 months ago I got a call from my Aunt (wtf?) and I had to drop everything and run. I wasn’t sure if Mum was going to be alive when I got there or not. Thankfully, she was & I got her to hospital, she has recovered – my nerves? …Not so much.
It was a reality check.
As you say, love the olds. Cherish them. X
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:39:45
Totally need to cherish them.
I’m speaking to Pops every day, multiple times. He’s staying with my cousin for a few more days as he is really weak, so he told me to not come this weekend, as it would be hard for me to stay there. Next weekend, I shall make a trip there to see him, when he is back at home… Love him too much and find it so hard to be so far away…
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 19:55:55
Sorry, i dont noticed you are regularely back online. Best wishes to your Pops, and also to the whole family. Michael
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 19:56:36
Thank you so much Michael. I am going to try and be back a bit more now. I miss writing on the blog!!!
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:00:53
Nice to hear, Ritu! We all want you back! Michael 🙂
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:01:12
So sweet of you Michael! ❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:01:32
:-))
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 19:18:14
I’m sending positive thoughts to you and your family!! It is nervewracking and heartbreaking to be separated from loved ones, and I’m so glad to know that you have such a supportive and caring family. I wish your father a speedy recovery!
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 19:30:50
Thank you so much Jessica. It is always a worry, but to know he is in good hands is a blessing ❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 18:57:27
I’m very glad that it’s nothing too serious and that you have your extended family on hand to care for him, BUT it is such a worry now with our parents. You start to see them age & it’s all so heartbreaking to think about. I absolutely agree. Make the most of them now xx
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 19:30:27
That is exactly what I think… it’s why I see my in laws daily too. They are my kids grandparents, and no matter what, they are my hubby’s parents too, so deserve the same respect! My parents, I wish they were closer, but we have skype, WhatApp and the good old phone for daily contact, and it makes the visits back home even more precious ❤
Thank you lovely ❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 17:43:41
Glad to hear your pops is okay Ritu ❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 17:49:18
Thank you lovely Debby 💜
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Jul 07, 2018 @ 15:16:31
❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 17:30:31
Such a true post! We just never know and definitely do need to make the most of every moment we have with our loved ones, by reaching out over the telephone wire or by sitting close to them.
Very glad your Dad is recovering and I hope he continues to do well. Parents are so special and I just always want them to be here, but I know they are getting older and that just won’t always be. As you said, “Hug them close!” ❤
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 17:40:58
Thank you for your kind words. Hug them close indeed xxx
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 17:58:16
You are very welcome! Thank you for your post.
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 16:43:54
I’m glad your father is on the road to recovery, scary indeed. My dad worked in the bush running machinery. He stayed in a small trailer next to a river where he could fish after a long day. Then, one morning ten days after Christmas he had a massive heart attack and died all alone out there in that little trailer.
I’ve never gotten over that. He shouldn’t have been alone. We should have called more. We shouldn’t have taken him for granted.
Our parents are our superheroes, but the truth is, nothing holds back death.
Hug your family close and don’t let the time you have with them be a waste. {{hugs}}
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 16:46:16
Bless you Jacquie that is so sad. I’m sorry for your loss… I’ll always hug my family close 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 15:55:30
I know how you feel Ritu.. I was thousands of miles away and always went into panic mode when I didn’t get an answer. It is wonderful as you say, that you have such a close extended family.. hugs♥
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 16:34:43
It definitely makes things easier … But there’s nothing better than being with them… 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 15:54:00
Reblogged this on Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life and commented:
A reminder from Ritu of the importance of making the most of every minute, especially with older family members.. this story has a great outcome, but it might have been different, leaving somethings perhaps unsaid. Head over and read and perhaps make a call or two.. or better still visit.
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 16:34:10
Thanks Sally 😍
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 15:49:10
I always try to spend time with family members, Ritu, especially the older ones for this exact reason, they aren’t with us forever. Glad your Pops is doing okay.
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 16:33:54
Thanks Robbie. It’s so important 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 09:17:28
Ritu, I’m sorry your Pops wasn’t feeling well. I am relieved he’s feeling better. Sending love your way. 💖
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 11:13:59
Thank you Persia. (((Hugs))) 💜
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 05:46:23
Thank you Brother. He’s better but only just. It’ll be a while….
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 02:12:52
I’m glad to hear Pops is alright Sister and I hope he recovers from the tummy bug very soon!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 23:45:23
Wish your pops a speedy recovery.
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 05:47:13
Thank you 😊
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 20:15:15
I can imagine how worried, then shocked, and after that how relieved you were. I am glad that my dear step-dad is getting better and not in a serious condition. I understand your feelings. They are not immortal indeed. Since my dad died unexpectedly we are all having a closer look at my mom who lives alone since then. She understands and always tells us when she is out and about. We appreciate having our wonderful mom even more!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 20:56:39
Oh you know the appreciation is always there sis. He is with my cousin, in good hands thankfully xxxx
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 20:47:55
And that is a good feeling and relief. Sending the biggest hugs to your pops and you, sis 💖
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:26:27
Very scary. Glad he is doing better. I don’t call my mom, who will be 95 next month, every day but we live close and I take her to her doctor’s appointments and things like that.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:55:56
That is so important too. I’m conscious of the fact they aren’t near us for my kids sake so we are regularly in contact 😍
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:00:17
What a frightening story. I can’t imagine how I would feel twere I you. I’m so glad all is well.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:55:09
Thank you Jacqui. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone…
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 14:14:41
Very wise words. I treasure my time with my 90-year old mother. I fear the time when I can’t. Although my brother says she will outlive the two of us. Maybe so.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:54:26
We have to be mindful and conscious of them 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 13:53:34
Thank you for the reminder, Ritu. I’m so glad you’re father is okay. Sending positive thoughts his way! Thinking of you all!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:54:01
Thank you Tonya 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 16:01:24
🙂xo
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 13:17:56
Wow, what a roller coaster ride of emotions. Thank goodness all is well. Your message to everyone is so important! Tell your elders how much you love them. And if you are the elder, tell your children how much you love them. We need to keep filling the heart, don’t we? ❤️
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:53:41
Thank you Jennie. It is indeed so important! 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 21:10:10
❤️
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 13:10:12
God Bless your Pops! I shall keep the healing light of love around him.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:53:17
Thank you Sis 😍
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:50:25
Hope your Pops feels better soon! 🙂
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:58:46
Thank you xxx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:49:38
I have only just seen this Sis, sending healing vibes to your Pops. I hope he will be fine by the time you see him at the weekend.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:58:24
Thank you sis. He’s still weak but much better too xxx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 12:04:02
Oh! Thank God for that what a nasty shock for you 💜💜💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 12:22:35
It was horrible sis… But he’s okay… 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 12:44:30
Thank goodness for that 💜💜💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:52:59
I know. I’m lucky to have the support of a fantastic extended family 😍
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:55:31
Yes long may that last, always good to have family around 💜💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 15:56:29
You know sis… 💜💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 16:35:30
I do indeed 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:24:41
I am glad he’s feeling better. I know how that worry starts the minute some regular point of contact is missed. I’m sorry for you, and keeping good thoughts for all of you.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:47:09
Thank you Dan. Much appreciated!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 10:59:58
Russia will win the Cup
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:46:09
You think?
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Jul 06, 2018 @ 10:45:04
Or Croatia… Go Vladmir!!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 10:31:47
Hoping your Pops is on the mend soon. That moment when we realize that they will not always be with us makes everyday of life a little different after. Thinking of you.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:44:58
Thank you Cheri xxx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 09:46:34
I can so relate. My Mom is almost 90 and in Canada while I am here in Spain. Talk about worry. My son and his 4 kids keep an eye on her as does my brother who is only 2.5 hours away and many other relatives and friends. She is in a care home but I still worry every day. Thankfully we can Skype and keep in touch. Hope your dad is fully recovered soon. I guess he missed the game!
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:44:41
Thank you! It will always be a constant worry. Xxx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 08:07:45
Oh Ritu I hope Pops is feeling better soon! The hardest thing about getting older is that everyone else gets older too and it’s awful – I would be lost without my mam and dad and I’ve already lost two grandparents and an auntie. A shock like this puts everything into perspective. Wishing him a speedy recovery xx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 11:43:47
Thank you Rachael. Just started spoke to him and he’s getting there slowly 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 12:02:53
Great news lovely x
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 12:03:37
It’s a relief 😁
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 06:14:15
A very pertinent post indeed – I hope Pops feels better soon. Take care all.
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 06:36:30
Thank you Lucy. At least he’s in good hands until I can see him and he feels better 😍
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:25:43
Ohhh Ritu I am so sorry to read what happened to your dad…but on the other hand I am happy that he is with someone and he is feeling better…
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:35:20
There is always a positive. Pops taught me that 😊 thanks Sophie 😍
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 09:15:48
🙂
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 04:31:25
Actually very emotional post Ritu. Thank you
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:34:44
Thank you Kurian 😊
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 04:19:09
On behalf of all Oldies Ritu, I thank you. I’m really happy your Dad is OK.
xxx Huge Hugs xxx
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:34:28
Thank you David. Love and respect all oldies out there 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 03:23:12
Thanks for reminding me.
Glad uncle is ok- hope he didn’t eat outside with your mom gone to your brothers’.
Sometimes these stomach bugs hit you so suddenly.Prayers for him, mom and sister in law.
Susie
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:34:05
We are still not clear what caused it but main thing is he is okay. Thank you Susie 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 03:22:46
Wow, Ritu!!! So happy things have worked out for the best but that is really scary not to hear from your Pops when you always stay closely in touch! I just had a friend that ended up in the hospital with a UTI and kidney infection and sepsis, major pain in her back from it. Perhaps, you can gently get him to pay more attention to what his body is trying to tell him??? Being almost in the three score and ten group I have learned it is best to error on the side of caution when it comes to one’s health!!!
Loved your post and admonition to love our elders because the truth is, we never, ever know when our good-bye may be the last one!!! Bravo, Ritu, Bravo!!
xoxo
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:33:30
Thank you Chuck. He does know.. he teaches about mind body and soul in his yoga classes but no-one wants their loved ones to be alone… Thank you for caring 💜
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 03:18:43
So absolutely true Ritu. This thought is always at the back of my mind. Calling up and talking to them reassures me. And the thing is whenever I miss calling because I’m busy with the routine or something they always want to know why I didn’t call. So then I realise they too wait for my calls and visits as much as I do. 🙂
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Jul 05, 2018 @ 05:32:20
Every day we call and/or message. I can’t do more even though I wish we were physically closer to them… 💜
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