[napscoordinator]

She sneaked cigarettes into and smoked in her private room, totally forbidden.

There is something so sad about this. I swear elderly have to go back to teenager type activities of sneaking around. I am a non-smoker, but I definitely think that everyone should be able to do what the heck they want as an adult. Goodness didn't she give enough to society to be able to have a cigarette when she wanted. I am sorry that she had a rough death, but it seems like she went the way she wanted. I am really sorry that you had to see your mom pass away.

[garyhope]

Thanks. My mom could smoke in the "Smoking Room" of the facility, they just didn't want her to smoke in her room in case of starting a fire. My mom was one short, but tough cookie. She taught me a lot. So did my dad.

I don't know if my mom died a "rough death" She basically died from pneumonia and emphysema. I was holding her hand when she died. I was like a child (at 59) begging her not to go. She passed peacefully.

My dad was the one who died a rough death from Alzheimer's disease. I wouldn't wish that on a dog. Taking care of my father was a real lesson in humility.

I've had 5 friends my age or younger than me die in the last year and a half. I still can't believe they are gone. I'm like an uncomprehending child about it. They were too good to leave that early.

When Mother Nature decides to punch your clock, that's it. Nothing you can do. I don't know if it's fate, genetics, diet or just bad luck or if you're religious, God's or the universe's plan.

It's all equal though, it happens to every single one of us no matter how rich, good, bad or famous. It's the great equalizer.