Happy Birthday to Sue!

As Wednesday, June 30th rolls around, Sue celebrates her 52nd birthday. There won't be a big party or a huge celebration - but perhaps a lot of reflective thoughts on what a wonderful 52 years it has been for all of us fortunate enough to have Sue in our lives.
Today Mayo Hospice delivered a hospital bed and placed it where Sue had previously requested it. As I gathered up some sheets (I had a difficult time finding them) and made this bed I realized what it was and what I was doing. It made me think of all the times Sue made our beds, always making sure we were taken care of - never complaining once. Yes, she spent 52 years making all our lives better.
I have not been able to get any comments from Sue that will give anyone warm fuzzies or make you laugh. It is a very challenging time for Sue...her days are long and without energy or vision she feels no purpose. I work each time we talk to keep her positive but it grows harder each day. She still has her wits about her and makes us all smile - she is in no pain. However, unfortunately, there is little joy in her days anymore.
Some friends from way back stopped by today and gave her a hug (Becca and Sally - see picture). She sat up and visited for a bit - being the trooper she always is.
I still read her all the cards, emails, blog postings and other kind words we get daily from all of you. It certainly helps makes this trying time much better. Happy Birthday, Susan Maree - you are one of a kind! Her loving husband...Ed



19 Comments:
Ed-Thank you so much for keeping us up to date on how Sue is doing. Your doing a great job with everything.
Happy Birthday Sue! I hope you can enjoy some wonderful memories. I remember when you came to see me in the hospital a few years ago. Thank you Sue for always being such a caring and giving person. We are all so lucky to know you.
Thinking of you!!
Ed, Sue and family,
My eyes filled with tears reading your blog this morning. You two are an amazing couple! I know very few couple with the love, devotion and wonderful relationship you have shared over these years! Please let Sue know we love her! Happy Belated Birthday!! She will always be a special part of our lives! Many terrific memories of little boys, wrestling and family!
Our prayers and thoughts are with you!
The Zastrows
Gregg, Sheri, Corey and Chad
Teddy - thanks for updating us.
Sue - Happy birthday! You always were the one to take care of people and make us laugh. You have such a huge circle of friends and family and now it's your turn to be on the receiving end. Hope your day is filled with love and hugs. God Bless. Todd C.
Ed,Sue and family,
Sue you truly are an amazing person and God must have special plans for you. You have been so positive through these 3 1/2 years, We can say without hesitation you are the most caring,giving,positive,wonderful person we have ever met. Ed you have been so strong through this ordeal you are truly the best!
I think The Zastrows said it best about your relatioship you shared over the years it is truly unique and special! Wish Sue a Happy Birthday! That we love her and Sue you will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
Don and Kim Andy,Matt and Kallie
Ed,
I agree; Sue has been a fantastic caregiver her entire life -- I remember Holly's grad party you guys had for her, everything was decorated and presented so nicely!! That party was the 'model' for the ones I had for Jessie & Sean, though I never quite lived up to the fantastic party that you guys had!!!
Sue (and the entire family) have been in my prayers every night...thanks for keeping us updated on things. You are a wonderful husband!
Happy Birthday, Sue!!!
Love you guys!
Happy Birthday Sue.
I think of how happy your mother probably was 52 yrs ago when you were born, and how if she could have envisioned how her daughter would touch and give so much to so many lives she would have realized what an exceptional treasure she held in her arms.
I know your family and friends know what a treasure they hold in their arms today.
Bless you, hope you feel the love that is coming your way from every direction.
Ed, thanks for the update and the beautiful tribute to your wife and love of your life.
The Tris
Happy birthday Sue! Again, just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you and your family often. I'm sending you and Ed an e-mail big hug. I sure hope you can somehow feel my arms wrapped around you both and giving you a tight squeeze. Love, Jenny Rose
Happy Birthday Stumpy! What a nickname, I hope that puts a smile on your face. Ed and Sue, we have shared many fun times in the past: Like watching football in your 100 degree basement, Sue and I getting baseballs autographed by Bert Blyleven, 10 years of camping at Bluff Valley rain or shine (mostly rain)"The Blob" and laughing at "Joeism's" I hope you can enjoy fond memories today on your Birthday.
Hugs to you my dear Stumpy.
Gods Blessing, Love Joe and Janet
Hi. Sue and Ed,
Even though I have not posted comments often. i viist your site often... reading the updates.. and praying for you in between the posts. You are both amazing.. this journey you have been on.. the journey you are on.. and the one ahead. I pray most often for your peace in each daily task, strength for both of you... comfort in knowing the love the surrounds you..and the moments of quiet understanding between you.
Continued prayers...
Lores (Gingerich) Vlaminck
Happy Birthday Dear Sue:
I can just see you now walking down the street with a lasagna dish in hand bringing it to the new neighbors that have just moved in the neigborhood. You would always be the first to greet them and make them feel welcomed! Or your beautiful smile that you always have when you greet people to make them feel welcomed and special. You always have had that unique gift of caring for people that is truly genuine! You are one of God's special angels and we have all been blessed to be a part of your life. Thank you for being you and being such a great example to us all! You are exceptional!
Please know we are here for you, Ed and your family and care deeply. Not a day goes by that I do not think of you and say a prayer.
Love always & May God Bless You -
Kathy, Ross & Family
Happy Birthday Sue,
Ditto on Sheri's comment!
Sue you are amazing woman and we love you so much!
I also had tears reading your blog, Ed thanks for keeping us all updated.
You are in our prayers every day!
Bev and Jeff Minske
Happy Belated Birthday to Sue and thank God for all the years he gives her to each and every person she meets. Ed, you and Sue are lucky to have each other and the bond that gives you the strength during this difficult times. Like others, as I read your post, I have eyes full of tears, glad to know that there is no physical pain but yet, the difficulty these days bring for you and your family. Not a day goes by that you are not thought of by many. Deb Gjere
I just read the update and I can't keep the tears from rolling down my cheeks. We had lots of fun together when we were growing up that I will never forget. How about those "hay traps"? Seriously, you are amazing and I can tell from what all your friends write that you are loved by many. May God continue to bless you and your family. I know you will be an angle over all of us. You are always in my prayers.
Love & Hugs, LeAnn
Happy Birthday Sue!! When I saw you at the Brains Together For A Cure walk last year you were doing so awesome and I just never thought this would happen. I am Elise Polkowske's sister. You may remember her; she passed in March 2008 from this horrible disease. We also used Mayo hospice and they were WONDERFUL. My prayers go out to you and your family, I know how difficult this time is. When you get to heaven, Elise and the others who have taken this journey before you will be there to greet you, I'm sure. God Bless You.
Emily Zalasky
Sue,
I thought I posted a comment - but I don't see it, operator error no doubt! Happy belated birthday and rest assured that the good Lord and I are in constant communication regarding YOU! I have asked him to hold you gently in the palm of his hand during these tough days - I hope you can feel it! Love you!! Shelly Kuhlmann
Hi Sue & Ed,Just wanted to tell you that I thank God and you for the day and visit we [your Mother and I] had the other day. Your always were a very special person and it is still true today. Your faith and strenght and love has taught all of us the true meaning of God's love for everyone.May you find peace and joy in the days to come.Our prayers are with both of you and your family everyday. Love Bernie& Eleanor
May God wrap his loving arms around you, Sue, and be with you and your loving family. I will always remember your tears and caring hugs when I met you at the Brains Together For a Cure Walk.
Kris Edwards
Mother of Elise Polkowske
Ed and Sue,
You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
Ed, you are definitely a brother to be proud of!
Sue, you are the angel that Ed brought to us so many years ago!
Love and hugs!
Lauren
Hi Sweet Susie and Ed,
Thank you so much for my visit to you both last week!
I love celebrating life together, speaking of all this past years' blessings, Holly & Drew's weddings,
spending time with Sal, and talking of Heaven. I know you'll be the Angel Hostess:)On those sunny days out side on your deck listen for God's birds singing to you honey and may He forever comfort you with all the GREAT memories you still can feel...I LOVE YOU! Bec
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