Betty June Wallman RIP

Betty June Wallman

12th March 1924 - 30th November 2007

RIP

Bea died at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness at 2.45pm today.  This is Jane blogging really because I have had to very, very rapidly apply elastoplast to my own needs because of Bea, my mother whose illness  suddenly became acute.  I haven't read any of my partner's previous blogs as yet suffice to say that Bea deteriorated very quickly. 

It was discovered that she had a whole new cancer unrelated to her one last year which had developed on her liver and she had secondaries in her kidneys and both lungs not to mention a blood clot on one lung.  I think we all realised how costly her operation and radiotherapy last year was when the first cancer was found.  We feel she made a conscious decision this time to hold on until a point when her Living Will could be inacted seamlessly.  It was and she died with dignity and some flourish; with periods when she was able to realise her death was approaching and we were able to share old jokes.  She passed beautifully and looked very much as she did when she was alive - snoozing - with a pretty much creaseless face - and at peace.  It was a privilege to midwife her death and I learnt a lot from her in the last 24 hours of her life.  A unique, creative, feisty feminist has entered another realm to wreak havoc, challenge and defend her principles.  Yesterday would have been her Wedding Anniversary - so her timing- as always is impeccable.

I haven't slept for 24 hours and so can't tell you how I am yet.  Mostly thrilled for her and in awe of her courage.  My partner is pretty much ditto.  We are planning 24 hours to just be and then we will begin to get our heads round the practicalities and our grief.  Until then...  Jane

Comments

[Gwen]

My dear Jane, It was such a privilege to have known Betty, a truely amazing, lovely and gentle lady. My heart goes out to you all. G

[carolynn]

My dear Jane
There are no words....
Only love and tears
Love for Bea who was such a wise mother and friend to me over the years
Love for you Jane
and Love for all the family
With love and tears
Carolynn

[carolynn]

My dear Jane
I have carried yourself, Bea, and all the family close to my heart and never far form my mind all day.
With much love, lifting you all into the hands of our loving Father and Mother God tonight.
Carolynn