11/17/2025
Today my heart feels heavier than it ever has, even after celebrating her birthday. What should have been a moment of joy now feels wrapped in worry and pain. My mom is struggling to breathe — each breath slow, strained, pulled only through her mouth. I can see how hard her body is fighting just to take in air, and it breaks me in ways I can’t put into words. No child is ever prepared to watch their mother suffer like this.
I sit beside her, holding her warm but fragile hand, whispering to her that I’m here, that she’s not alone, that she doesn’t have to face this moment by herself. But inside, I’m falling apart. I wish more than anything that I could take her pain away, even for a second. I wish I could breathe for her, carry her weight, or trade places with her so she wouldn’t have to struggle. But all I can do is watch, pray, and hope that she finds even the smallest bit of comfort.
Life feels so unfair when the strongest person you know becomes the one who needs the most strength. My mom has spent her whole life giving me love, guiding me, protecting me, and now I can only sit by her side, doing so little when she deserves so much more. I talk to her softly, even though my voice shakes. I try to smile through my tears so she doesn’t worry. I tell her “I love you” again and again, because maybe those words can give her a little peace, a little warmth, something to hold on to.
Mom, I’m so sorry that I can’t take your hurt away. If I could trade places, I would without hesitation. I just want you to rest. I want you to breathe without pain. I want you to feel safe and held, the same way you’ve held me my whole life.
No matter how hard today is, I’m not leaving your side. I will stay with you through every breath, every whisper, every moment. You are my heart, my home, my forever love.
Mom… I love you today, tomorrow, and always.