"The only way to take the sting out of death is to take the love out of live." Russell M. Nelson
My Mother passed away July 16, 2012 at the age of 84.  She has been living in my home for almost 2 years.
The last 6 months of her life were very difficult for her.  She had uterine cancer and was also a heart patient.  The last few months she was very sick and in considerable pain.  Watching her deteriorate was a very hard thing to do.  When you see someone suffering, you wish they didn't have to and it's so hard.  And although I didn't want to see her in pain and thought I was prepared for her death, I really wasn't.  There's something about losing the person that's been with you since you came into the world, the woman that has loved you, nurtured you, clothed you, wiped your tears, encouraged you, and been there no matter what, that seems to leave a hole in your heart when they're gone, that I don't believe I'll ever get over.  Don't get me wrong, I would never want her to live like that, such a far cry from the woman she was, full of life and a real spitfire.  I know she doesn't hurt anymore and believe she's happy now. But, no matter how old I get, she's still my mother and I love and miss her very much.