Tribute to Dot (Ranman's Mother-in-law)

[Ranman]

She is flying high now.

How to review the life of another butterfly that has taken flight?

Dorothy, my mother-in-law fought valiantly to the end.  I introduced her to you several months ago as Dot, what her close friends called her.  Even though she had much against her with an infection in her spine causing unbearable pain she still told her kidney doctor that she had always hoped she would get better.  She accepted that her last dialysis session would be on Sat. Sept, 24 and by Sun. Sept 25 she accepted the Lord’s invitation to join him where there will be no more pain or tears for evermore (Rev 21:4).

Dorothy had taken flying lessons years ago but when it came time for her solo flight, she declined for reasons concealed in the deep ocean of her heart.  Perhaps fear of flying alone was a factor because she often asked for her hand to be held at times during dialysis.  After teaching her that her concept of being alone was never true once we have accepted the Lord, I reminded her that an opportunity to take a solo flight may come again.  My wife and I let her know if the Lord came knocking and we were not with her at that moment, we gave her permission to fly solo.  My wife and I had not left her side for more than a few minutes while the nurses were attending to her.  When it was time for the ultimate flight she boldly took advantage of her moment alone with the Lord’s angel at her side.

Dorothy and I read many books together these past few months.  Since I was a Nebraska farm kid, a certain book rang close to my heart because it was about a Nebraska family sharing the experience of their son Colton’s visit to heaven.  He wasn’t even four years of age at the time.  Friends introduced me to that book as Dorothy was entering the dialysis world back in March on her 87th birthday.  (The book Heaven is for Real is also available on CD with Todd Burpo, Colton’s father, reading.)  As much as we all hate dialysis, we are grateful for the cushion of time it provided us with Dorothy to read messages of hope for our days ahead, beyond this earthly realm.

Although I rarely posted on this site I drank deep from the well of living waters which includes the open hearts of everyone in this IHD family.  My prayers have been with many of you as I was encouraged through the accounts of many battles you have fought.  One other book I would like to suggest for your reading is The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews which reveals the interconnectedness we all have with each other and how immeasurably important each life is. 

Blessings to you all,

Ranman

[okarol]

What an endearing remembrance Ranman. I am glad Dot had someone like you close by at the end of her life. Best wishes and hugs for you and your family. 

[chook]

I'm glad I found a moment today to read about Dorothy. Your writings touched my heart so thank you.
My sister died a couple of years ago and she loved all things 'butterfly'. If I see a particularly beautiful one, I always think of her. The day before I received the call for my transplant, a huge black and yellow butterfly almost brushed my cheek when I was out in the garden. I like to think it was my sister letting me know good things were about to happen. My youngest granddaughter was born on my sister's birthday. We have a photo of my little grandie touching her hubby on the cheek and looking lovingly into his eyes. I believe my sister is present in that moment and we are blessed to have a photo to preserve it. And now I'm crying at the wonder of it, but happy tears.
Thanks for sharing the memories and your Mum-in-law was a lucky lady to have such a caring family.

[MooseMom]

I am so sorry for your loss but am happy that Dot is now free of earthly pain.

[Sluff]

My heartfelt condolences for your loss. That is a very well written memorial, which shows that it is always well spoken when spoken from the heart.

[monrein]

So sorry for your loss.  Dot sounds like a wonderful person and so do you.