Blog Log: My Mom and Me…The Last Chapter
By Joy Davis For The Sun March 13, 2013 4:34PM
Naperville resident, Julienne Lentz, 57, with mother, Gilda, 85. Lentz takes care of her ill mother, which she records on her blog, My Mother and Me...The Last Chapter.
Updated: April 16, 2013 3:15PM
Julienne Lentz is finding herself in a common but difficult situation.
Lentz, 57, of Naperville, has been coping with her mother’s dementia, COPD and congestive heart failure for a year. Lentz has grown closer to her 85-year-old mother, Gilda, and has chronicled their growing relationship on her blog, My Mom and Me … The Last Chapter.
“First and foremost, blogging has been therapeutic for me,” Lentz said. “I try to be strong around my mother no matter what she is experiencing. I want to be compassionate, understanding and as helpful as I can be. Many times I break down as I am leaving the rehabilitation facility.”
Caring for one’s parents is a growing occurrence for Lentz’s generation, who are among the first generation to experience the role reversal in the parent-child relationship. As Lentz comes to terms with her mother’s illness, she must also cope with the new role that she fills as her mother’s caretaker.
“Mom’s needs vary from week to week depending on her doctor or dental visits, rehab meetings and hair appointments,” Lentz said.
“Whether I am personally with her or not, every day I spend time on many things concerning her, such as handling her financial affairs; researching and selecting hospice; working with hospice with their daily care for mom; working with her nurses, aides and doctor; washing her clothes; shopping for mom; researching health problems she experiences and blogging our journey.”
Lentz and her mother are also working on their relationship, which Lentz described as less than ideal. Her goal has been to enjoy this final chapter with her mother, which Lentz has done.
Many readers will find a relatable story through Lentz’s blog, whether they are caring for a parent or working on their relationship with one.
Lentz writes from the heart and gives an honest portrayal of the ups and downs of a mother-daughter relationship.
To read about Lentz’s experiences with her mother, follow her blog at mymomandmethelastchapter.blogspot.com.
Want your blog to be featured in Naperville Sun? Email the link to freelancer Joy Davis at joydavis234@gmail.com, along with your name and why you started it.
