Dear all, I have not been a regular poster on here mainly due to time constraints and the worry that I was a whinging bore! Just to let you all know that my Mum passed away on Wednesday. Although she had vascular dementia, she had an exploratory laparotomy for stomach problems and they discovered a huge tumour; (surgeon said he did not know how she had survived). She got through surgery but then had to return to theatre as an artery blew. She survived that but then arrested in ICU afterwards and passed away. She did not go with vascular dementia, but with arrest post operatively. In the last few months, Mum and I had restored our relationship: we spent time telling each other we loved each other, holding hands and were close again. I told her I loved her every time I saw her, as she did me. At the moment, I feel like my heart is ripped out and I hurt so much. I am dreading Mother's Day this Sunday but she is in the best place now. I never thought I would feel this bereft. I just have one message for you all, as a last post; you are all wonderful people, who helped me through my darkest hours. Thank you so, so much. gather strength from each other: love, laugh and live. When the end comes, it is so very painful but know that there are thousands of us who have been through, and share your pain. Love to you all. D X