Betty Passed Away

As many of you have noticed from my Facebook post, Betty passed away peacefully last night around 9:30 p.m.

I'm relieved that she's no longer lingering the way she did.  Near the end, Alzheimer's Disease had really taken its toll on her.  I wasn't sure that she understood English, and she didn't recognize anyone around her.  There was some concern about aspiration because she had difficulty in swallowing (another Alzheimer's symptom).  She was restless in bed, which could have indicated that she was in pain.

We were told Wednesday morning by Kris at Rocky Mountain Hospice that Betty had severely declined.  I had many errands to do in Bozeman, but Jean and Dad were able to see her.  She had stopped eating and drinking, and had apnea, so it seemed as if she had decided it was time.  Hospice administered some low doses of drugs to give her more comfort in breathing and for restlessness.  She couldn't take oral medication anymore so they used some that could be absorbed.

Since yesterday I have been busily working on Betty's obituary, knowing that she was getting ready to leave this world.  I'm very glad that her pack-ratting abilities allowed her to keep so many records on her life!

We'll miss you Betty!

Betty McGowen

1924 - 2012

Betty excited to go to Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyoming - August 1940

Betty stands next to her new friend in January 2005.