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FEEDBACKS - PART 17

July  28, 2008

"We buried our Mom Saturday, July 26, 2008. She was in her 98th year, and much of the text in 'Parents' Wish' applied to her.  She lived to give, putting the needs of others before hers. I wish we had thought to get permission to use this A/V as part of her memorial - it would have helped the younger mourners to understand that, if we live long enough, the odds are that their parents will need the care and understanding described here. Here's to you, Mom - you [and Dad] did raise us up to stand on mountains. Jim, Steve and Jane. P.S. - Tell Dad and Tom that we'll see y'all later."

"I have saved this beautiful and touching presentation, and sent it to everyone I know. I cry each and every time I watch it. My husband and I are both 63 now, with a great-grandson of 1 year. This is truly a wonderful message to all. Vicky ~ Parker, CO"

"This was sent to me by a friend, but ultimately it is an answer to prayer. I have been on a spiritual roller coaster since my Mom moved in to our home. At 88 she is in really good health, and the struggles are quite honestly mostly selfishness on my part. Truly, the sin of self! Although my husband and I had planned for one or both of our mothers to move in with us, when it actually happened, we weren’t as prepared as we thought. We liked our 'empty nest' and having Mom has meant giving that up. This video has been such a powerful reminder of the gift and privilege of caring for my mother that God has given to us and I thank Him for this. To all who struggle as I have been, I share this quote from the classic book, 'Adam Bede', 'When death, the great Reconciler, has come, it is never our tenderness that we repent of, but our severity.' May God forgive me for my times of severity! GG"

"Cried all the way through. Sent it to every one I know who would appreciate it. It has given me an new perspective on being a care taker not to my parents but my older brother. Thanks for the inspiring site.  Love, Norma"

"I cannot believe how well you captured my thoughts, my heart and my purpose. I am caring for my mother who is 88 years old. She has severe senile dementia. It has been so hard to watch her decline. I was not prepared for this. You always know that your parents will die and leave you one day, but you don't expect that they will lose their minds before they go. I try to look at the funny things they say and treasure them but sometimes it's hard to think of those things when they soil themselves and don't even realize it, or when you find maggots in the kitchen because they haven't put food away or washed dishes. Just knowing that you could eat off of their floors when you were young because the house was so clean and now is in such disarray is enough to bring tears to your eyes. Sometimes they know who you are and sometimes you can tell that they don't, even though they are carrying on a conversation with you. You wonder, where has my mother gone, what is it like for HER to not remember what she went inside for or what she did 2 minutes ago. This situation has been the most rewarding and at the same time, the most depressing and stressful of my life, but, I rise to the challenge because of the very things your video demonstrates. This video should be submitted to some sort of award competition. It should be turned into a commercial on TV for the elderly. Too few people will see it on the internet. And it needs to be seen by everyone. It is frightening to me to know that most likely I will follow in her footsteps. I only hope that someone will care enough to visit me, tolerate my babbling and encourage me to bathe. In the beginning, my mother knew she was becoming forgetful and she had a long talk with me. She requested that I let her stay in her own home until she became combative and didn't recognize me. Against doctors advise, I have tried to honor her wishes, when it would be so much easier to put her in a home and leave her care to others. I've been criticized for my decision, but honoring her wish is important to me. Thank you for your video. Through my tears, I found much comfort in it. You could not have picked a more appropriate sound track than Josh Groban."

July  27, 2008

"What a different perspective as an adult child with aging parents. Very well done."

"I am 76 years old and this song and words are the most emotional piece I ever seen or heard. I have nine children and I sent this to everyone of them and also to my friends. I have loved Josh Groban's music ever since he came on the scene. It is too bad that we don't know the author of the words."

"At a time when I am considering having my 87 year old mother with beginning stages of Alzheimer's go to an assisted living facility because of a drain on my energy taking care of her, this video said to me keep taking care of her...you will not regret it."

July  24, 2008

"This is the most beautiful, emotional video I have seen in a long time and want to have it to share with our Sunday morning fellowship 'Senior' group.

"I cried almost at the moment I started to watch this beautiful video. It is the most extraordinary piece I have seen. This is a perfect time for my 'empty nest' and you can believe that I will send it not only to my 3 children but to as many people I can think of. Thank you for you wonderful work of art. You are surely blessed."

"This is the most beautiful and inspiring pieces I have ever seen. Some day, God willing, we will all get there. We must remember that how we treat our parents as they age will teach our own children about our own aging process. Thank you for the time you spent putting this piece together. I will keep this and look at it often. "

"I work in a retirement and Alzheimer's center and think this should be shown to everyone who enters, parents and children alike. Sometimes all we have to give is a smile, and that can be the biggest gift we can give to someone, be it a parent or their child of any age. That smile speaks a thousand words if we just take the time to listen. This video is one of the best ones I have seen and so appropriate to our lives. At some point, the message here will pertain to each and everyone of us. Please, if you have this available on a CD I would love to purchase a copy for my home and also for work. Very well done. Thank you"

July  23, 2008

"Beautiful and so true. E. H. Weldon, Texas"

July  22, 2008

"I'm writing this through my tears. My wife just left to look after her father while her mother goes out to take care of some important paperwork. He has Alzheimer and Parkinsons Disease. My parents have long since passed away and in one sense I have 'adopted' my wife's parents. The link to Parents' Wish was sent to me two days ago by a friend that doesn't know this. Five years ago, on the night before our wedding, Dad fell and broke a hip. He was rushed to the hospital for surgery. Consequently my wife's parents were not at our wedding, and the family reception was move from their home to an Uncles home overnight. We spent the daylight hours of our honeymoon in the hospital looking after Dad's needs allowing Mom precious hours to go home to clean up and rest herself. They have seen a video of the ceremony though, and all the pictures at the small family reception. I've spent the past five years helping to look after Dad, and Mon for that matter. It's been a long hard struggle, but one worth every step of the way. I wish there were word to express just how deeply this has touched me. A Parents' Wish is without a doubt the single most beautiful thing I have read on the net, and in my opinion, justifies the nets existence.  From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for sharing it with us. May God, as you understand him/her, bless and keep you."

"I do trainings with elderly and kids. This would be a great ending to a presentation."

"I am a Mother of a daughter who is fighting for her life with Cancer. I hope that when I reach an age where she will need to take care of me she is there. Thank you for allowing me to send this to her I am sure she will love it as much as I have. Thank you for this beautiful message to my child of how much it means to watch your parents grow old especially when there are so many that never have that opportunity to have their parents grow to a wonderful ripe old age. I wish my Dad was here to read, see and listen to this beautiful message. I would have loved to have watched my Dad grow old."

July  21, 2008

"This was so beautiful. My parents, mom is still alive and my dad died in 99. This brought tears to my eyes, not only because of the beauty and truth in this, but also my own guilt. My mom is forgetful and at times I get very angry at her, for some of the things that I just got slapped in the face with and trust me when I say a slap- one I very much deserve and needed. This has taught me that mom will not always be mom and I guess, I just don't want to see that. Without her, my brothers and sister would not be the people we are. All I can say about this video, is  'THANK YOU' for making me see that mom is changing, not because she wants to but because God has chosen this for her. I sent this to my children, so they will hopefully see before my time comes for God's changes that their mom will probably be the same as their grandmother and I hope that mom will forgive me for losing my patience with her and I will talk to her and explain to her, what woke me up. I have hurt my mom's feelings which is the biggest hurt a person can do to an other. This message was a wake up call for me. Thank you again for making this especially for people who do not understand or want to accept that their parents are dying in more ways than one. Patti"

July  20, 2008

"I think this presentation is so beautiful. I work in a nursing home and I feel this would be a wonderful slide to show. This truly explains aging and I think it would be appropriate for my in service."

July 19, 2008

"I cried as I watched the words and pictures and listened to the song. My mother suffered a series of strokes in October, 2001. Although she initially had no physical aftereffects, she did suffer from dementia. She came home from rehab on Veteran’s Day and passed away just 6 months later a few days after Mother’s Day. In that short span of time, we went through all of those emotions and more. Both my husband and I are convinced to this day that she made a conscious choice for a quality of life, not a quantity of life, and that’s why she passed away so quickly. I miss her every day, and even more now as we plan for my son’s Bar Mitzvah."

"Thank you, for I am caring for my 83 year old mother and 80 year old aunt. I needed to be reminded of the loving care I received as a child. I pray a lot! Deletha"

"Oh my God! This is one of the most touching things I have ever watched. Perfect touch with 'You Raise Me Up' by Josh Groban! Gets you at the heart!"

July 18, 2008

"I was sent this in March by a friend. I lost my mom on Easter Monday, 2008. Many times I would visit and many times she would say, 'One of these days you will understand', ... she told my daughters several times that she did not know why she was still here. We celebrated her 90th birthday in February and people came from all over, Alaska, Florida, Texas, Indiana we had over 200 Birthday Cards from all over the world. She will be missed. I keep this on my home computer and my work computer and I play it often. This piece is wonderful."

"Very true and teary. God Bless all."

"The effect of this slide was very powerful and brought tears to my eyes. My father died in 1995. I was raised by my mother and my stepfather. My mother who is 82, is now in a nursing home with Alzheimer's. My mother especially was a great help in babysitting our daughters. My husband and I are active 64 year olds and returning the gift by babysitting our grandchildren. I constantly hope and pray that we will be around long enough to see our children and even possibly our grandchildren become established along life's way. Thank you. M.R."

"This was my mother's song for me and mine for her. She raised me up!!!"

"Thanks so much for this beautiful work of art!"

"I’m speechless! How beautiful this presentation is, and how enormously important! We lost our gentle, loving father in August, 2008, after a totally unexpected bout of illness. From October, 2007 until he passed away in August, 2008, we had to watch in horror and sadness as this always strong, independent, God-loving father of ours withered away. When his heart attack first hit and we were all called to get to the hospital immediately if we wanted to see him before he died, I literally hit the floor on my face and told God 'You can’t take him now, please, please. There is so much we need to learn from him'. We need to know about how he’d been caring for our ill mother, how to administer her medication, who her doctors were, what are the bills he pays every month…all the stuff he’d been doing almost totally alone, even at age 85. God honored our prayers and we were given ten more months with him, to learn from him, to cherish and honor him, and to let him know daily how much we loved him and how thankful we were for how he’d sacrificed his entire life for all of us. And, very importantly, how proud we were of the man he was. Now that he’s gone, we four siblings are trying to care for our ill mother. She’s been in and out of the hospital with diabetes, double-pneumonia, congestive heart failure and so many other illnesses since 2000. We’ve been finding it hard to be patient with her because our father had totally spoiled her… he worshipped the ground she walked on and his last audible words were 'Honey, are you OK?' But, this special message has brought back to the forefront of my mind how important it is to show our mother our love, support, and desire to care for her as long as she needs us, just as she cared so lovingly for each of us. God bless those who put this piece together. It is an important piece of art and should be viewed by all. Fran – Austin, TX."

"Thank you for providing such a beautiful tribute to our parents and to all the generations that precede us in life."

July 17, 2008

"If this presentation is on a CD I would gladly purchase it and watch over and over. It applies as I am 80 years old."

July 16, 2008

"WOW!! I was so inspired by your presentation!! I have been a nurse in long term care in Texas for 26 years. I have had a dream to have a small facility where everyone could have there own room-(not a semi private one) and where it was small enough that all staff would have time to 'take the time' to hold hands with the residents and let them know we loved them. The families would have their 'own' space to visit with their family-in their rooms. This slide presentation only made me more determined to reach out and obtain that dream. Our elder deserve more--when they need us--we need to be there for them--to lift them up as they have us. Thanks again.Valerie"

"I viewed 'Parents' Wish' today for the first time. Oh how I was touched. I lost my mother about 5 weeks ago. As I watched this video I recalled the many times of being with my mother on her journey through Alzheimer’s that I had said the very same things that this video says. And I realized through this journey how very important it was to my Mother that I had the patience and understanding to travel with her through those difficult moments. This video says it all. My mother was there for me as I spent all my life growing up. And I was there for her in her last years of difficult moments. Thank you for such a wonderful message. It is tremendous and I hope all children (and we are all children) will see this."

July 15, 2008

"This was one of the most heart stopping e-mails I have ever received. My Mom is in a nursing home right now, and even though I need to see her more, we all as humans find some sort of excuse to do other things. THEY raised us the best they knew how, and we owe it to them to give them some time back that they gave us as parents.!!!!!! This is truly a MASTERPIECE!!!! M.O. Kentucky"

"I agree that the song is beautiful - it is one of my favorites. But your choice of words, explanations being addressed to the young by us older generation is so profound, I cry every time I read this. I am part of the 'Sandwich' generation - the one that has helped my younger children with their education problems, marriage upsets, grandchildren raising assistance, and at the same time was there for the elder generation, the parents who needed us for transportation, house cleaning, doctor appointments, hospital visits, nursing home care, and patience. I am sending this to my own grown children, who occasionally demonstrate a bit of impatience with me when they have to repeat something. They haven't a clue yet. I am so glad I was patient with my elder ones (although, not always as much as I should have been either). But the comparison to what we did for our Young Ones in their little lives is a perfect illustration of what they need to prepare for in assistance and love toward us, their parents. It is a fact: we all grow old some day. Thank you for this beautiful message!"

"I first heard this song while driving home, after sending my son off for his first stint in the army. I cried! He's home now, unscathed and no longer in the army. Every time I hear this song now, my son brings me good news! I still cry when I hear it! Thank-you for such a powerful message. B Sibbett"

"This is the most beautiful thing I have ever read. Thank You Very Much. Lynda Mendez"

July 14, 2008

"I would love to have a copy of this, it made me cry."

"Thank You. For the memories it brought and the chance to forward the message to my son. Debbi"

"I can relate fully to the words and images. Especially the one about letting me die. My father died in April 2008, his wish was to go home and die, I carried out his wish. My mother died in March 1999, she was frail had poor quality of life. I miss them both so much, and even more because I recently became engaged to my wonderful beau. I love you mom and dad."

"Very intense and deep. Brought a lot to mind that we always move forward even with age we never go back. Live life to the fullest and like its your last."

July 13, 2008

"Thanks for a good and timely product. As an experienced minister, I see the need for this reflective message every day in family after family."

"Oh!!!!! woww!!!!! HEART touching words. Really it made me feel very much. I always thank GOD for blessing me with such a beautiful PARENTS. Really amazing slide. Hearty wishes to the one who created this. May GOD bless thee."

July 12, 2008

"This is absolutely beautiful. I lost my parents 2½ years ago. They passed away 3 months apart. The Josh Groban song 'You Raise Me Up' was my mother's favorite song. We had someone sing it at her funeral mass. The message is one that everyone should read and keep close to their heart."

"Thanks for the reminder and inspiration for tolerance, understanding and compassion for those whose time on this earth is nearing its end."

"Beautiful and right on. I have an aging mother and sometimes I have to curb my impatience... once their gone, it's too late to say  'I wished I'd done or hadn't done'. The saying 'you don't know 'til you've walked in their shoes' is so true. Thanks for putting this together... and Josh Groban's accompaniment is hand in glove with your message."

"Thank you for what you did! It is a most moving presentation and such a good message! Mary"

"Truly inspirational. Thank you to whoever thought of this video. I can only hope that my children will appreciate this as much as I have."

"I lost my father four years ago after caring for him for so long. It still hurts today like it just happened. I got grief from some for caring for him, but I would not change a moment of the time I had with him, even in the end when I lost him. This is a true tribute to my Father, and I thank you for creating it. People need to realize how important family is."

"A friend forwarded this to me. We had just had lunch together that day and she went home to find this sent to her. Knowing that I am taking care of my parents, (my father had dementia and my mother is legally blind. while working full time and finding time for my own family she thought it would be perfect for me. It was such an inspiring message. I have always said, even though sometimes I get overwhelmed with things, i am blessed to have my parents and wouldn't have done things differently. I wasn't able to hear the music, not sure why but I'm sure my daughter will tell me :) by the way I forwarded it to both my daughters. Thanks so much for such an inspirational message."

July 11, 2008

"My Daddy went to be with our Lord and Savior on April 13th, 2008. My daughter-in-law sent me this link and I can’t believe how touching and beautiful it is. I still get very emotional when reading it, especially about the shower and the food. We kept trying to get Daddy to eat and take showers in his last week and now it seems that it was such a trivial thing to be concerned about. Now I talk with my Mother a couple of hours every day, I visit when I can and she calls me her memory. I am enjoying every minute that I am blessed to spend with her. I want these wonderful memories to last forever. Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful writing and Josh Groban’s music. Blessings, Carlene"

"As I near the golden years of my life I can see how important it is for everyone to listen and respect those who have gone before us. We always must remember that we start off in this world unable to take care of ourselves and our parents were there guiding us along, teaching us and making us strong. Now we need to become the parent and support our Mothers and Fathers as they grow old and need our assistance. Spending a few minutes with them either in person or on the phone completes their day. This way they know that they are not alone."

"I wanted to say Thank you very much. There are no words to describe how grateful me & my husband for so true & meaningful slides. Tears flowed and we hope that our children learn from this 'Parent's Wish'. Thank you again."

July 10, 2008

"The music and message of Parent's Wish is truly inspiring! I have been a volunteer advocate for the elderly and disabled for almost 30 years and have listened to many stories like the words of your message. Thank you."

"This is the most glorious e-mail I have EVER received. I view it often and tears roll down my face each time. It says what I can't say to my kids. Thank you!"

July 9, 2008

"What a beautiful page! This page was sent to me by my mom, who became a widow just last year, and it hit home! The last page made me come back to reality because it said 'we love you, child. Mom and Dad'. It was then that it hit me that this page would be perfect if the sender was able to add their own child's name and the titles that the child calls them...(i.e. Mom and Daddy). Anyway, this made me cry and thanx for the beautiful tribute and very fitting song."

"That poem is so beautiful. It made me feel so guilty,  I suppose, for rushing through life and leaving my parents behind. I love them dearly and will always make sure they know exactly how I feel- Life is too short not to."

July 8, 2008

"I have always enjoyed this song. I had lost my father on December 23,2006 and my mother in law on December 18, 2006. My husband and I left for 2 weeks in the Dominican Republic just to get away from it all and relax. During a performance at the resort, this song was played. I hadn't cried all that much prior to leaving, but I sure cried that night. My father lived with my husband and I after my mother passed away in 2003. He was a very sick man and was expected to pass away long before my mother did. But for some reason, God decided he needed to be here. With all of his health problems he still managed to to be cheerful and always tried to stay upbeat. Until he was placed in the hospital in August of 2006 for surgery that was not done properly, we knew deep down that he would not be coming home again. He missed my mother dearly and told us many times that he talked to her more and more everyday, only one of my 3 sisters and 2 brothers, was ever there with our dad and I. We both were there everyday for over 4 months. Our dad would ask us, why would we do this and not be home with our husbands (two of the best in the world). And I finally asked him, would you leave me or any of us alone for days at a time, or would you be there for us everyday. Of course his answer was everyday. That is why we did it. He would have done the same for us, as would our mother had she survived. I miss them both more than words can describe and talk to them all the time. I write letters to them in my journal and always feel that they are as close to me as they can possibly be. So yes I have sent this on to other people. As we have no children of our own. I have also sent it on to my nieces and nephew, with the hope that they will look after their parents as well as I did mine. Rest in peace mom and dad... Kim Crosby"

July 7, 2008

"I would just like to say how very true and moving it is. I don't think anyone could watch, read and listen to this without weeping. I'm sure it will make a difference to many elderly peoples lives, when read by their children. To you and everyone who helped you in the making of this, 'Congratulations' you have done an excellent job."

"This is just the MOST beautiful song I have ever heard.....I have used a box of tissues......"

"Thank you for giving me a way to tell my son how much I love him. And, that I hope that when I reach the winter of my life, he will still love me for who I am. With Grateful Thanks, Karin Lanning"

"The music and words should be separated. You can't pay attention to the words and listen to the spoken words at the same time. Both are beautiful in their own right."

"Thank you for a beautiful presentation. We only have one parent left, but am sending this to our daughter and hope it will help her to understand better the aging process. Even though she is a wonderful daughter, I am sure it is hard for her to see the progress of this process. Thank you again--Jan"

"I wept like a baby all through this touching movie. My dad is 90 and has advanced stage Alzheimer's, my mom is 86 and in reasonably good health but gets really down because of the condition my dad is in. They are in an assisted care facility, my mom in her own apartment and my dad in the Alzheimer's unit. They have always been Godly parents, not only teaching my (deceased) brother and me what is important in this life, but also living it every day. We have been truly blessed to have them both as parents. They always taught us how much God loves us and watches over us, whatever the circumstance. My prayer for both of them is that they too can always remember and see and feel God's hand and love in their lives now. I guess it's my job now to always remind them of this just like they never failed to remind me throughout all the years of the ups and downs of growing up and starting a family of my own. And certainly it is my job to never forget to remind my own son. Thank you for this touching movie."

July 6, 2008

"I could not keep the tears from flowing while viewing the Parent's Wish. I sent it to our children since I am on age that I have so many of the problems listed. Many, many, many thanks."

"This is so meaningful for me and helps me remember when Mama said she did not want to live any more. She left us for heaven nearly 3 years ago and now I truly understand. Love you always Mama and I'll see you soon. Leatrice"

"My father is reaching the point of needing someone to check on him frequently. I live several hours away and can only see him a few times a year, so it falls to my siblings to do what needs to be done. I cried through the entire presentation and will be sure to forward this to my siblings to keep these things in mind when they get frustrated with my father. Thank you for putting things in perspective."

July 5, 2008

"This is very moving. Every child who has a parent who is in the fall and winter of their life needs to see this to help them understand what is going on in their parents lives. My husband and I are at this point in time. Although we are not as bad as some there were many things that hit home. Thank you for putting this on the web. I know whoever put this on the web did not write it but I wish they had put something about having to push the parents around in a wheel chair. Children are also leary and sometimes hateful about doing that. Sincerely, Jake"

July 3, 2008

"I love this."

"After losing my father on 10-16-06 my best friend sent this to me just a few weeks ago. It helped me to understand so much and now I have sent it to my sisters and brother. I also sent it to my mother. She was so touched by the slide show and hopes all her children will honor her wishes when she is ready to pass on and join my dad. I hope my sisters and brother understand why it was sent to them and will feel what I feel every time I watch. Thank you so much for giving me comfort. Tori Rowell, Griffin, Georiga"

"I watched and listened and cried to this beautiful video and song. It is everything I wish I could say to my children. This is the second time I have seen it and I love it more and more. I hope this finds it's way to all the children who seem to have forgotten what their parents went through to raise them and in spite of our mistakes they remember we love them."

"The slideshow is just beautiful. It really touched my heart. Thank you for making the slideshow available."

"Thank you for looking into the depths of an aging person and putting it into words and pictures. My heart has been read and put on the Internet . Nancy B."

July 2, 2008

"Oh dear how to go from smiling to tears almost instantly. This is just beautiful. Every one in the world should see this and read those beautiful words and hear the magnificent words of the songs. Talk about tug at the hear string, this has just about pulled them out, at a time when our darling mother and mother in law is on her last few weeks of life in a nursing home and the other three parents have already gone. Thanks so much to who ever made this most precious film. Thank you again from Eileen."

"A group of us have put together a history of our hometown. In many ways, this short essay of yours is in keeping with that which we've done. The sense of family and community, of belonging and time are all here. When I viewed this, it struck a chord that has brought me back to see it again several times and forward it to everyone I know. For whatever personal reason you've touched some golden strand in us as a string on a piano and it would seem by the feedback I've read, we're all in tune. Dann Gravett"

"This is the most beautiful and honest thing I have ever read. I will be sending it on to my children and hope that they keep it in their hearts for the future."

"I just viewed the movie! Wow, that's all I can say. I am so touched by this, it's got to be the most incredibly true and heart wrenching thing I have ever seen on the Internet! My husband and I have my father living with us, he's 84 and in great health, but I find my patience level be tried daily! This really puts things in great perspective for me!!! Thank you sooooo much, Laurie Bailer, Dayton, Nevada"

"The video was really inspiring. I've just been working for 2 months away from my family. Watching the presentation made me realize how I miss my parents, brother and sisters. Thanks to the video I am always reminded of the main reason why I chose to live."

July 1, 2008

"What a beautiful and heartwarming message. It made me cry...... and yes it is so true.:"

"It makes me cry and cry. I am thinking why. I treat my mother, 84, very kind and patient. I am treated very kind by my kids, 26 and 28, as well. It recalls all my deeply buried memory that how hardly and heartly to have my kids being brought up. A going to 60's mother/daughter"

"I as so many others, find this so poignant and moving particularly now in my life since we just buried both my in-laws (3 weeks apart) and more recently, my mother. My father, who is the last of our parents, is now 90 and in failing health. I would very much like to know when the CD becomes available so that my children can have it. Thank You so very much."

"I work in aged care and after seeing Parents' Wish which was sent to me by my wonderful mum I called a staff meeting and made everyone watch, as it says so much. I think a lot of people take their parents for granted and they should not be in such a hurry to put their parents into care facilities."

"Thank you very much for this beautiful and meaningful presentation. I know the drill and proud to say for it is an innate quality of our Filipino culture, that our elders never have to fear for lack of love and care. But I have seen it too often in my lifetime where an elder is relegated to 'assisted' living - - that is not living. I thank you again. David Llorente. Santa Fe, Texas"

June 30, 2008

"Thanks to my cousin Barbara for sending me this email. It says all the things I feel, but would not be able to put into words. I will send this to both my children. I visit nursing homes, and see so many there that have been abandoned by their children. Their pain is my pain and it hurts. They are the forgotten people in our country. I will keep this email in my folder forever. Thank you. Irma Davis."

"What  a wonderful song and  writing so moving and so true. It says it all. I will forward it on for others to share. Just to remind us all that it happens to every one of us at some time in our life. Thank you for the reminder.   Fran UK"

June 29, 2008

"What a beautiful tribute to the 'seasons of life' and the love of a parents children.... God is in this."

"Thanks for the slideshow. I was touched with it (narration, music, etc.) hope to receive more other touching, shall we say poetry. Thank you again."

"At 46 I think I'm starting to really get 'it'. I'm an uncle, but raising parents is a whole different ball game <g>. Amazing how between 30-45 one matures at least 20 years. Those who don't, it's sad. As a gay Uncle, I'm wishing for happiness, stability, harmony and prosperity. My nephews are a couple of dynamite 18 and 17 year olds. I'm very proud of all their accomplishments. TK"

June 27, 2008

"Right now I am dealing with my mother and her dementia so this totally speaks to my heart. Thank you."

"Thank you for this incredible video. I lost my father on June 2, 2008 and my mother Oct 27, 2005. I miss them both terribly. I think back to when I tried to make them eat, (they needed to get better), I wanted my dad to get in the shower, (what did it really matter), I sometimes wanted the conversation to hurry along (because I had heard it one too many times). Now I would give anything to listen to that conversation again. Josh Groban, thank you for your words and wisdom. Ann Jorgenson in memory of my mom and dad. Gladys K Evenson (December 18, 1929 - October 27, 2005) and Kenneth C. Evenson November 26, 1925 - June 2, 2008)"

"I too was moved to tears over this. My Dad had a stroke at 57 and it left dependent on us 'girls' to watch this strong proud man struggle with his words and actions. The day after this stroke my Dad lost his speech and he just pulled me to him in the best hug I ever had. I remember the feel of him to this day it was the last hug I ever got from him. This horrible stroke took everything of my Dad and he was gone within the month. The time we had with Dad I cherished every second of it, it was hard on me for I was 7 month pregnant with our third son, but no matter how tired I was, I was so lucky to spend those last days with Dad. Please, tell your parents, spouses and children everyday how much you love them you never know when you will get the chance again."

"This is beautiful and so fitting for my life's work."

"Thank you for this beautiful presentation. We are in our 70's."

June 24, 2008

"Like many others who have viewed this, I too was moved to tears. The video was very moving And yes his voice was perfect for the song. We will be forwarding this slide show to as many people as possible. Thank you for bring us back to what is truly important in our lives and reminding us that we too will be there one day!"

"Each and every time I watch this, the tears flow as it is so beautiful. I feel so guilty as I was not as patient as I should have been when my 94 year old Mother-In-Law was in the last stages of her life. I am so sorry Minnie. If I could only go back! I am forwarding the Parents' Wish to my children so they will understand the things I should have! Carol--Minnesota"

June 23, 2008

"I want to thank you all for the Parents' Wish poem. It is so to the point.  I am 68 years old and my husband is 71.  I sure can see us knocking at the door with one food in. Thank again. Martha A. Higdon:

"I cried through the email! WOW!!! Everyone should listen to this."

"After viewing Parents' Wish I again found myself turning back time 3 1/2 - 4 years ago when my parents died 4 months and 1 day apart. I again realized just how much I still miss them and wish I had the opportunity to spend some time with them again and say thanks to them for making me the man I am today."

"I think this is just beautiful and I sent it to everyone I could think of. No one could tell it any better than it is said right here. Thanks for sharing. Mary May"

"To say thanks for your inspiration is not enough. I moved back from Brazil, South America to help care for my parents. Mom has Alzheimer's. Dad's difficulties are more physical. They are both in their late seventies and needing constant care. My wife, children, and I care for them now in our own home. My mother was one of the most innocent and sweetest ladies ever on earth. Now she sometimes says and does things that can be shocking. Dad often feels like he has lost her already, though he still loves her. When I was a child they were always there for me! I am so glad I can now be here for them. Several times I have expressed my love to them and joy in being able to care for them. Mom doesn't remember. Dad just seems embarrassed that he needs such care. However, your video just reminded me again of how much I really love them! I will strive to do even more to show them my love, respect and appreciation, due to your touching, loving reminder. David"

June 22, 2008

"I love it. I love it. I love it. D. Barkley. Penna"

"Thank you so much for this beautiful e-mail. Being a Senior, who 6 months ago lost her husband after 51½ years of marriage, this touched my heart and spirit like nothing else has. Josh, you are truly blest with a voice from heaven. May the Lord grant you many years to sing of the Lord's presence and blessings to one another. In thankfulness and praise, Muriel Ericksen"

June 21, 2008

"Wow! It was a heart-moving piece. I never thought something so wonderful can really make me realize what life was and will be. I'm a single dad of three boys, who are all in their rebellious stage. I don't know how I'm going to have them join me watch this beauty, but one thing I'm sure about is I will try my best to have them do it with me and my mom, who is also living with us. There will be three generations in my family who will be benefited by this heart-warming video. I'm sure we can easily come to realization on the beauty and importance of each generation to one another. Let's make this a living legacy to all generations. More power to all who participated in making this a master-piece. May GOD bless you all and your hearts too."

"Best presentation, very powerful wish. I could send it to the entire world. How do I get a copy of the CD? Grace."

June 20, 2008

"Excellent!!!! Thank you."

"This is truly the most beautiful piece I have ever seen. This really hits home with me. My wife and I are currently providing care for my 93 year old Mother. She moved in with us five months ago, and there have been numerous times when I have let my patience grow very thin. Wow, this piece really drives home how wrong I have been. I knew it each time I grew frustrated with my Mom however, this is a real eye-opener and so very true. Thank you so very much for putting everything in perspective."

June 19, 2008

"The slide show was awesome. I'm only 9, but I've been mad at my mom lately and this made me realize how much she does for me and how we love and always will love each other. Thank you, Abby"

"What a beautiful tribute. I also cried all the way thru, Josh has lent his beautiful voice again to feelings we all have but, find hard to express. Thank you and God bless."

"What a beautiful slideshow presentation. We are a long term nursing facility. We all just huddled around the computer watching and listening, agreeing how neat it was. We would like to make it part of our orientation or yearly in services. Everyone needs to view this, it has such a powerful message. We would be interested in the CD form. Thank you so much. Rowley Memorial Masonic Home, Perry, Iowa"

June 18, 2008

"Thank you so much for creating this beautiful slideshow!! I cried through the entire thing. I have a mother who is now 72 and she is starting to show signs of her age. I try to be as patient with her as possible when she repeats herself or does not understand things about the world today like technology. But, there is not one thing that I wouldn't do for her, because she has always been there for me! Every child and parent needs to view this beautiful presentation. Again, thank you!  Michelle"

"Thank you for creating this. I am dealing with an elderly Father with Cancer, Alzheimers and Dementia and it was a wake up call to read this. From my heart, Thank You."

June 17, 2008

"It is very touching and have cried from heart. Today, at 58, I am lucky that somebody have made me ashamed of not being a son to my mom. Truly today I am craving for the same love and affection which was not given to my mom. It is horrible and am cursing myself for that. Please let me cry for my sins, yes, let me cry! Thanks and regards, Prakashv"

June 15, 2008

"Both my wife and myself have been involved in healthcare for the past 30 -38 years. Specifically my wife, who more so deals with the elderly. Now, we have her mother living with us (85 years old) who has trouble seeing, hearing and basically no memory. Your presentation drives home exactly what we are dealing with. An elderly loving parent who now depends on us. Your presentation has really awakened me to the way she must be feeling and the way I (we ) must help AND UNDERSTAND HER. I've read the other notes from the 'feedback' and all this has given me so much of a better empathy of how we must take care of her at home. I've also worked with the elderly for 13 years and taken many education courses about the elderly but your presentation really drives it home in a tremendously human fashion in a nut shell. Thanks."

June 14, 2008

"This is so beautiful. I am a nurse and I think all new recruits should see this and it should be a part of any one's orientation when working in the medical field especially if in long term care. Just wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing. Margie Powell"

June 12, 2008

"This was a wonderful presentation that is so appropriate for all us 'old folk' to forward to our children."

"It made me think of my Mom, who passed away almost 2 years ago. So much of the wording reminded me of things she said. My friend was right when she said in her email to grab the Kleenex. I started crying immediately because I loved my Mama so much and it hurt so bad to see her suffer the way she did for so many years."

"Everyone should view this! I thank God for my parents, my children and grandchildren! I hope I will have their love and respect, ALWAYS! May I please always remember to treat everyone I meet with dignity, respect, and LOVE!"

"I replayed the video a half dozen times, though blurred by tears. It's message is so very important; that time with our parents so precious! As the eldest of my siblings and unmarried, I became the caregiver through my Dad's illness, and then my mom's companion and caregiver after he passed on. I never would have thought it would mean putting my own life and dreams on hold for ten years, but I would not take back a second of the time I spent with them. It was a special grace to be with them, caring and loving, at their end. Grief is something we all come to terms with, but guilt over things unsaid or undone eats your soul. Love them, sit with them, hold them...while you can. Do it for yourself as much as them! Bless you for an amazing message, and an amazing song to accompany it!"

June 11, 2008

"I think this is one of the most beautiful, meaningful and heartwarming slide shows I have ever seen. I have it in my favorite places and just emailed it to a nurse in a nursing home. There are many young and middle aged people there visiting and sometimes they don't really understand the feelings of older people, especially older sick people, ones you may lose shortly. I hope she can pass this on to parents siblings That it will help them understand and prepare for the losses that will occur, and just how lucky they are to have parents. My mother is 93 and having a bad time right now. Someone told me this evening that she said she wants to die. I hope with all my heart that she recovers, however, if she doesn't, that we love her so much that we know she is not being selfish; just tired. May the Lord Bless and Keep You All. Josh Groban is just the right person to do the background music with this presentation. His voice is truly a gift and he uses it well. E. Toth, Reading, PA"

"I moved in with my mother after I had gone through a bad divorce and she had a mild stroke. I live in a small town (but growing rapidly) people like to 'talk' they would ask me why I moved in with her. I would answer, 'She spent her life raising me and NOW it is my turn to help her'. All of the things the show touched on, can and will happen. I was lucky if you call it that (she passed while starting to slip in to dementia). Being there was always the most important to her. Don’t ever forget that sometimes presence brings simple joy! I wish I’d have seen this while she was still here. Many thanks. A Loving Son"

"My Mom 'was' the smartest, most well-read person I know with a flair for fashion beyond belief. The most gentle, intelligent woman I have ever known. Today, she has Alzheimers, it is 6 years now and I lost the Mom I knew 6 years ago. She does not care about hygiene and reads but does not retain anything. Yet, she is still my hero and your poem Parents' Wish really helped me. I am often too critical of her, I want to understand, but it is hard. My Dad is the caretaker and he has become so depressed and a 6'4 man is so little now due to Mom's condition. Thank you for your words, they really meant a lot to me and helped me to face reality, however harsh it may be. I enjoy their company so much and your words show me that they are still my loving, beautiful parents, no matter what the present-day circumstances may be."

"Wow! This is so true and so beautiful. We will all come to that point in our lives. May we never forget this beautiful email."

"I love Josh Groban and thought the music went very well with the slide show."

"This was fantastic. We all need to realize that parents get old and they have given us many things and revert back to where we all started. I had the privilege of taking care of my grandfather in his final days and seeing him revert to his childhood and I would not have changed that for the world. We popped balloons together, pushed them back and forth like children, let him do and eat anything he wanted. He was so appreciative. I cherish those memories with him. Thank you for putting this all in a slideshow."

"I wanted to congratulate you on a job well done. This tops the list."

"This was the most touching piece I've ever seen. Thanks!"

"A bit of advice. For those of you who still are blessed to have their parents around, remember that life changes....as we get older, our roles as children change....we begin to switch places with our parents, and in doing so we become the sole providers and care takers of these wonderful people. Enjoy it...every last bit of it. Even if you're up to your elbows in dirty sheets and heaven forbid dirty diapers. Be thankful that you can help them, just as much as they helped you when you were starting out in this world. Tell them every DAY! that you LOVE THEM and that they do make a difference in this place.. if you don't tell them, they sometimes lose their way and don't remember that they are needed, they don't remember that their smile makes all the difference to SOMEONE around them. Be glad for the time you are given with them, because when they are gone there is no getting them back. Regret is an awful thing... so don't' forget to take care of what you have now, so when they are gone you can look back and smile and say 'They knew how much I loved them' . This WONDERFUL slideshow hits home, no matter who you are. Who ever created it, this was a work of art for sure. Thanks for the wonderful blessing of this slideshow and for allowing viewers to post their personal experiences! Brandy Griffis, Jacksonville FL"

"My Auntie Kay just had to be put in a locked Alzheimer’s ward for her own safety. It was the hardest thing my family has done. My uncle is building an apartment for my grandmother to live in. In my family, we care for one another, especially our parents. I had a stroke four years ago at only 32 and my mother didn’t hesitate to have me move back home with her. Unfortunately, I’ll never be able to solely support her in her old age, but I will do my best! This slideshow just reinforces the way we all need to help our ageing 'Baby Boom' parents in an extended family unit, the way families used to be, not the isolated nuclear family unit we have become! I will pass this on because a tearful reminder is always a good thing! Shawna Clawson"

June 10, 2008

"Congratulations! You should have them in French, Spanish and German and .... Excellent idea! Merci mille fois."

"I receive many e-mails each day and sometimes I have to delete some of them because I try to manage my time... but for some reason I opened this one and I know things happen for a reason. My Mother is battling Lung Cancer since October 2006. She is a strong women and has been through a lot of Hospital Stays, Doctors visits, Lab tests, Surgeries and Chemo Treatments. Another health problem has kept her down in the past few months with a Back Fracture. She went thru her Surgery and Therapy and now seems to be on the mend to her old self. She just turned 80 in April and still thinks she's 60! Along the way through her illness she has her moments...but she has kept up her positive attitude and with thoughts and prayers from her family and friends I hope she is around for many years to come! This message is so true and close to my heart since my father passed away my Mom is all we have left. I honored my father by building a family tree and would like to honor my Mother with a special gift at her next birthday! Your video has given me some ideas for a slide show. Thanks for the encouragement. God bless our Fathers and Mothers and the US troops!"

"That was beautiful, all I could do is cry. I hope everyone watches this. It's more important than you think. Carol Reynolds, Estacada, Oregon"

"What a wonderful presentation, my wife and I were each moved to tears. We each lost our dad some years ago and look after our mums as best we can on a regular basis. Our mums our elderly ( 70's and 80's ) and can be 'trying' on occasions. We love our mums and our resolve has never faltered, should there ever be a risk of it doing so we will sit and watch 'Parents' Wish' again - I will never delete it, thank you so much."

"This is so beautiful and so true. It's a shame we have to tell our children what they should feel for their parents. But we are only human, and humans do forget the important things in life. I am going to send this to my two children and I do hope they will keep this and remember these things when I get older. I lost my mom at the age of 7 and my dad died when I was 32. I was robbed of my mother's love at a very young age and how I longed for her when I became a mother myself. I was forced to understand the way of life at a very young age. Experiencing death as a child made me grow up too fast. Always felt alone even though I had a sister that was 4 years older than myself. We lived in 2 separate worlds. I just want my children to love me the way I love them. I do love them more than life itself. They were the best joy that my life has given to me. And now I have 2 grandchildren to give me more joy! I just want to feel the love that I missed when I was a child growing up. Hopefully I will. Thank you for putting my feelings is such a beautiful presentation."

"A wonderful job it is. And oh so very true."

June 9, 2008

"I have been providing long term and end-of-life health care services to the elderly for almost two decades. I found your message very powerful, and a great reality check for why I do what I have been doing for so long."

June 8, 2008

"No matter which one one chooses, it’s the same, whether it’s Single mother or single father. It’s emotional either way. THANK YOU."

"Thank you for the beauty and the message. Groban’s beautiful full voice gives so much to the presentation."

June 7, 2008

"My children are young....I want them to have this when I am old."

"This is so beautiful... I am still crying!"

"I cried. My grandmother is alone in an old folks home. I thought of her with each slide. What is wrong with our 'modern, western' society that allows us to feel good about ourselves as we wheel our elderly into lonely facilities for the aging? Thank you for sharing this with me."

"WOW! I just lost my Mom to cancer April 3, 2008. I have no regrets, only that she could see this and I could hug her and tell her I love her one more time. Paul, Boaz, AL"

June 6, 2008

"Just wanted to say thanks for the beautiful song and slideshow. Today would have been my mother's 78th birthday. She died of cancer when she was 63. My father died 3 years earlier at the age of 69 from emphysema. I was only 29 by the time both of them died. As a single mother myself of a young child; I hope she has me for many more years than I had my parents. My parents didn't live long enough to be really old. I always try and convince my friends that they're actually lucky to see their parents live into their old age. Again, thank you. Have a great day."

"It has help me so much with seeing my mother slowly slipping away.... Many thanks to you for putting this on the net."

"I love the song! It shows emotion. It almost made me cry!"

"Thank you for such an inspirational presentation."

"Thank you so much. This video made me cry. It saddened me because both of my parents are gone. They were loved and they knew it. Daddy wanted to live on - Mom wanted to die. Both in their late eighties. It is already happening, my daughter gets impatient with me when I can't perform a function on the computer, when I lose my keys or can't remember where I put something. It also saddens me to think that there are seniors out there that do not have anyone. Just beautiful!"

"What a wonderful tribute to our aging parents! I have been going through these very same things with my 86 year old mom, who is doing fairly well physically, but is forgetful and suffers from depression. She remains in bed most of the time and we 'children' and her geriatric physician are trying very hard to motivate her to resume her favorite activities. After reading the Parents' Wish email I am resolving to be more patient and loving and accepting of her old age. We cannot change her condition, but with this new insight into it we can enjoy, with her, the remaining time we have together. Thank you for such a beautiful tribute!"

June 5, 2008

"How precious this is. Bob and I have been married 50 years. He has been confined to a wheelchair since 1995. I am his caregiver. We also have a CP boy who is 43, as well as having 5 other children with their families and grandchildren and great-grandchildren who have their own lives. I thank God for my husband of 50 years. We take care of one another."

"This is the music we use many times in our worship services and the pictures and the words in the pictures are absolutely heart touching. I hope that all will be able to view this outstanding piece filled with such love and care for one of the seasons that we will all walk in this life on earth until we walk again into the arms of our Lord and Savior. In His Service of Love, Pastors Rod and Marietta Cage"

"This was beautifully done, loved the music and the presentation. I too like so many have lost so many in my lifetime, both parents, a brother, a grandson, two son in laws, cousins. It really represents all of us in life. I lived with my mom for 10 years, we shared so much in our lives during that time and since she passed away 7 years ago and my dad 26 years ago, there is not a day I don't remember them and would give anything to have them still here with us. I have told different ones when they would question me about living with my mom and wasn't it hard at times and I say yes it was hard but it was also hard for her and I would do it again in a heartbeat. I will be 79 June 12th of this year, still have a lot of living to do I hope, I always say it is my family that keeps me going, I have five daughters, 15 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren and am sure there will be more of them down the road, we are a very close knit family but there are times I wish my girls would realize that they need to be more in touch with me than they are, it seems as if they think I will always be there for them but I know down deep in my heart that someday I may have crisis of some sort and not be able to be there for them. I am sending this on to all of them plus the other family members and friends, It is worth passing on. Thank you again. Donna"

"How lovely. How beautifully done!! It should make us slow down... even STOP, and realize just how precious time really is. In this busy, fast, materialistic life style that we have become accustom to; we need a wake-up call like this to bring us back to reality. 'SAD to say but TRUE'. Take a little of the precious time we have left to smell the roses and enjoy our family while we can; after they're gone it's too late. Thanks soooo much for the PARENTS' WISH!!! Don Nicholson"

"I'm a father of 2 sons and a was very blessed today by playing your wonderful PARENTS' WISH and I am forwarding it on to them as my Father's Day special message in song and words! It depicts everything a father wants for his children to pass on! I'm facing Chemo and maybe radiation for my 3rd bout with the big C and this has lifted my spirits and brought tears to my eyes! Johnny Miller Fort Myers, FL"

June 4, 2008

"How lovely.... Josh Groban's music is so enhancing. My parents have been gone for years, but I would hope my children/grandchildren will eventually see me in the same light with which I recall my Dad and Mother."

"This is absolutely beautiful with a lot of meaning in it."

June 3, 2008

"What a wonderful job you did with this!! It almost knocked me out of my chair when I read it!! A good friend from another state sent it to me, and I am so so thankful she did!! I have sent it to everyone in my address book!! It really shook me, even though, my parents have been gone for years now. I just hope my son realizes that I am getting close (62 years) to those frames of mind. Most of all, I want to thank you so much for putting this together. Thanks are so small, and words won't express just how truly everyone I know has appreciated this. My sister wanted to take a copy of this out to the hospital where she works. I have no idea how to help her do that, but I sure will try to figure out something!! Thank you so much for a marvelous job!! Linda- Indiana"

"I just got your video of a Parents' Wish today and could not stop the tears. I lost my mother 5 years ago in July to lung cancer after having her live with me for 11 years the last 6 months of her life was so very hard. I had so much anger inside at the cancer and it forced me to draw away from my mother because I did not want to lose her. If only I would have seen your video 5 years ago. I hope this video helps others who do not know how to deal with losing the most precious one of your life. What I would give to have 5 minutes to hold her once again. Jane"

"Thank you - that was beautiful."

"This is a beautiful wish."

"I just viewed your Parents' Wish video and appreciate the work you have put in to focus on a very important aspect of aging. I only wish that the same amount of care that was put into the production and distribution of the video and website was also put into the quality of the text. The English used to caption the still photographs is awkward and full of grammatical, although not spelling, errors. Your message would be much more powerful if you could do some careful editing of the written text. Good work!"

"I had received this from a different friend years ago and it brought tears to my eyes then. I'm now fast approaching 64 years old, have many aches and pains but have many dreams for many things yet to do. This both gave me a REALITY CHECK of what my parents must have felt as they approached the end of their lives and also gave me an INSPIRATION TO PRESS ON AND MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO COMPLETE THE ASSIGNMENTS ALMIGHTY GOD HAS GIVEN ME. Thank YOU ever-so-much for not only producing and sharing this, but working towards producing the CD. If I can further encourage you, also produce a DVD for those of us who would like to share it in church and other settings. May Almighty God richly bless you and give you FAVOR as you pursue all the legal hurdles to complete your production. Pastor Alexander Gordon, Pittsburgh PA"

"My parent's love this and I want to keep it and read it as a tribute to them. Thank you."

"Goooooooooseeeeeebumps.... indeeeeeeeed very touching..... i love u, mom and dad.... hoping its not too late to say sorry. HARE KRSNA. Madonna Cadorna Stockli"

June 2, 2008

"This is the first presentation of this kind I have ever seen. The old parents' topic is usually left without attention. I love this movie! It's amazing, beautiful and so much needed! Everybody should see it!"

"What a powerful presentation! During the last few months of my mom's struggle with ovarian cancer, we 6 siblings helped with her care so she could be at home for as long as possible. It was so very painful to see Mom so weak and helpless. She was a single mom who raised 7 children. (She lost her oldest son, my brother when he was 22 years old.) Her strength and faith in God were an incredible inspiration. When I took my shift and had to deal with the bathing, toiletries and getting up several times during the course of the night, I had to remind myself a lot how much more Mom had done dealing with the 7 of us. What a small price to pay back to her. I hope your video will continue to reach those who need that reminder of all our parents have done for us. THANK YOU! Michelle"

"My wonderful Mother sent this to me. As the story unfolds I found myself asking 'Where's the punchline?' My Father and Mother have both recently turned 65. They tease and joke about their age and eventual decline / demise both mentally and physically, (they are both probably healthier than I am ((I'm 40)). I know it will eventually happen, I'm sure it's the Parent in them that says...listen up you little knucklehead! Thank You for your efforts, Chris in Costa Rica"

June 1, 2008

"I don't have words to express how I felt while seeing the slideshow, when my father got ill I moved back home to take him to live with me and watching this is step by step what my father and I went through it was like living it all over again. I would, I Loved my father so much and would put my life on hold again just to take care of him. Thank you so much for this Parents' Wish. Maria Salazar

May 31, 2008

"This was very touching. It made me cry. It also told me that I need to spend more time with my father before he passes away."

"Thank you so so very much for this web site. I love Josh Groban and the way the whole thing was put together was very moving. I will send this to my children as I am having some of the problems that are in this piece. I thank you so much."

"Very nice. I'm only 78 and the day will come. Hope I will not be a problem to my three children and wife. They will know when to pull the plug. ED CASTLE."

May 30, 2008

"This CD is BEAUTIFUL and is so true."

May 29, 2008

"Wow...very touching. My parents are taking care of my grandmother right now......and you hit on everything they are dealing with. What an awesome reminder!!! Goosebumps!"

"I sent this to all in my address book and pray my two children watch it and listen to it with their hearts. A very sobering piece . Thank you!"

"I received this beautiful message from a friend today. Although I don't have children myself, I must say it was thought provoking. I asked myself am I doing all I could and should be doing for my much loved 86 year old mother? I always cherish any time I am able to spend with her the thought of losing her some day makes me very sad. Your presentation will make our times together much more meaningful. I know it will remind me to be more kind, patient and understanding. The music was so appropriate an accompaniment, Josh Groban is an outstanding performer and this particular song has long been one of my favorites. Parent's Wish is absolutely beautiful and truly touching. Thank you for the insight."

"A reality and beauty of our life in relationships. All that our Creator has already told us in so many ways. Salute to the people worked on it and hope for considering to the people viewing / listening it. 'Mom & Dad! We love you.'"

May 28, 2008

"I was very touched by this video that a friend sent me. You did a great job putting it together.

"It is a lovely presentation."

"Well, this is just where I find myself now. My parents, 84 and 85, are moving to an independent/assisted living facility, my dad has lost his clarity to Alzheimer's, and my mom, well, she carries on, leaning heavily on her faith. While I do keep in mind all these things from the slides, it's helpful to be reminded again, as my patience wears thin at times. Thank you."

"Just viewed it - sent from a very young friend and co-worker here. Thank you, it is very, very nice. I will be sending it to my grandmother. May good health and peace always be yours."

May 27, 2008

"I received the Parents Wish from my in-laws. I don't have any children, but I really enjoyed it. It brought back some memories from my earlier years. Josh has a beautiful voice and really brought the slideshow to life. The song was in fact a wonderful selection for the slideshow. There are so many elders out there who has no one and they are forgotten about and left in a nursing home to die. That is a shame!!!!! Keep up the good work!!!! Respectfully yours, Dawn Hann"

May 26, 2008

"Thanks for a beautiful message. I quit my job last year and moved back home to look after my mum, who has advanced Alzheimers. Every time I bathe her, brush her teeth, cut up her food and take her 'potty' I think to myself that I am repaying a debt. I have never regretted my choice to keep her home and thank God we are able to care for her ourselves (my sister and myself)-- as I know others are not so lucky. I am also very fortunate in that my mother gave me a fairy-tale childhood, so I am happy to keep her as comfortable, healthy and happy as I possibly can. This message re-enforces what every care-giver and every child should never forget...help those who cannot help themselves. Thanks again. Kelly"

"It's been a tough Memorial Day weekend. My fiance is in prison for a crime he didn't commit and I'm having a terrible time trying to get him out. (YES it does happen!!!!!) My parents have both been gone a long time. I have a 32 year old son who is busy with his own life and my friends are often busy with theirs so I occasionally get down and depressed. Your song helped me today. Thank you. Barb"

May 24, 2008

"I just lost my mother May 15, 2008 and got this emailed to me May 11, 2008 but did not open it until May 16, 2008. Even as hard as it was to view this and read the wonderful words it also inspired me and helped me get through. The music was more than I could take. I have heard it many times and loved it, however it will now mean much more to me. Had I gotten this email two months ago it would have given me the courage to let my mother go back in April. I only hope that this message will get to people in time so that they can understand it and allow their family member to leave them with dignity and all the love that one person can have for another. Thank you so much for such a lovely and beautiful creation!!!! Phil"

"Thank you so very much for a wonderful site. I thought I had forgotten to cry. My life is so busy and my job extremely stressful. I am employed in the law enforcement field and encounter the ugliest parts and mannerisms of people on a daily basis. This sight spoke to my heart and went right to the soft spot I thought was all but buried. My mom is 79. I called her this evening with more attentiveness, understanding and love. Thank you for the wake up call."

May 23, 2008

"I just received this link from a cousin back home in R.I. I am 750 miles away from her and my parents. I just came back from visiting with them while Dad was in the hospital. He has had congetive heart failure for many years now, and is failing quickly after the last two heart attacks. He was just moved today to a rehab unit since he can no longer eat solid food. The words remind me of how my 90 year old Dad and 89 year old Mom cared for me when I was young and very ill. As a Stephen Minister, I visit the elderly and the sick. The words and the pictures are very moving, and help me to listen to them and be patient. We tend to forget how loving our parents are, and what a special gift from God they are. As I listened to the site, I began crying, because I see Dad failing so fast. I would love a copy of the CD when it comes out. Thank you for making this for all of us. Ken"

"Beautiful; touching; reality!!!"

May 22, 2008

"This is so sad! It touched my heart and my feelings. I keep on crying whenever I play the slide show. It reminds me of myself. My health is now deteriorating. This is one my favorite songs too and favorite singer. I just hope our children learn from this slide show. Thank you who ever created this. Perfect score."

"I am a middle aged man (48) with two wonderful parents whose company I am still blessed to enjoy. I was made aware of your website and message thru an email, and I just wanted to write and relate my feelings of gratitude for such a wonderful message that brought tears to my eyes.  Sometimes I find myself losing a bit of patience with one or both of my parents, even though they still have all their faculties about them, age still tends to play tricks on their memories or disposition from time to time, and I have occasionally lost patience with their seeming inability to grasp what I am trying to say to one or the other. As I watched this great message, I not only thought of my own parents' voices saying these phrases to me, but I was also silently saying these very things to my own children, one of whom is a new mother herself, making me a very proud grandfather, and I am anxiously waiting for the day I can share a lawnchair with my own wonderful granddaughter!!  Through this simple act of kindness, and a desire to share something that touched your own heart, you have succeeded in touching the heartstrings of thousands of worldwide viewers, and I am honored to include myself as another of those people who smiled, remembered, contemplated, and wept, as your wonderful message with great meaning played on my screen. I hope that these few words of mine can somehow convey to you my thanks for you having done something truly great and worthy of going down in history, the touching of another heart with an act of kindness and sharing. People like you are what makes the world a wonderful place to live in!!"

"Beautifully done and inspirational. I am forwarding it to our son as well as friends and relatives. If this comes out on a CD/DVD, I would love it. Thank you so much for this slide show. Mrs. B. Bolduc, Milford, CT.

"I cannot express it any better than in this video except to say THANK YOU. I put copies of this in files for my children so that they might get some insight when I reach this age."

"Thank you so much for A Parents Wish.  We just lost our mother February 15, 2008 from Ovarian cancer.  Josh Groban’s  'You Raised Me Up' was the theme song for her service."

"God bless you for this site! I glanced at some of the FAQ’s and was a bit disturbed by some of the negativity of some of the questions – I’m sure the author(s) had no intention of referring to assisted-suicide, starving, etc. I have no doubt that this was developed out of love, deep love, of a parent or parents for their children and the love, deep love, of a child for those parents. I only wish that I could have seen this a couple years ago when my Dad was dying of cancer. During the long, restless and sleepless nights when I would then have to work all day but no matter what I tried he couldn’t get comfortable in bed and my patience would wear thin, I could have used this to remember  and to find the patience and understanding. Thou shalt honor thy father and thy mother that all may be well with thee and thou mayest live long upon the earth. Thank you for the visual reminder. I must be honest and tell the truth that I printed the words for Mother’s Wish. I intend to laminate it and affix it to my refrigerator, reduce it for a copy in my purse, and to try and commit the message to memory for those times in the future when I might forget. Time spent with our parents is golden and when they are gone from this earth they are gone and the time for showing our thanks for their sacrifices on our behalf are times lost forever. Thank you, again, for these words of love. Kim Shafer, Minneapolis, Kansas"

"My brother sent this to me and I am so glad that he did. I have been taking care of my Mom by myself for over a year now and it has been so hard with all of the different ways things are for her from not being able to remember from one minute to the next then she is so mean to me that I sit and cry a lot of the time then the next day she doesn't remember that she did the things she does or says. I will keep taking care of her no matter what. This is the first time anyone has tried to help me. So maybe he understands at last and that is why he sent me your poem. Thank You for having this, it is wonderful. Sandy Meinel"

May 21, 2008

"What a wonderful tribute! How very true the words are. I only hope this video keeps circulating. We are all caught up in our overly busy lives, but please do not forget the important things, parents and family. Stop and take the time to be with them so one day you will not regret that you didn't."

"This is absolutely beautiful. God bless you."

"This is making me cry as I write. I have been taking care of my Mom for almost two years. Six months I spent living with her instead of my family. She was in a nursing home for rehab. It was such a good facility she is once again living on her own. Even with that I spend my free moments taking her grocery shopping, make sure she eats well, take to her doctors appointments so I know what is being told to her, etc. I need a vacation, but I won't take one away from here in case she needs me. But we made it so she could she her youngest granddaughter graduate from college with honors. That meant a lot to my daughter since Mom is the only grandparent left. My Mom and I helped I take care of my great grandmother, my grandmother, my grandfather and my father with the biggest burden on her. Now is my time to take care of her. IT ISN'T EASY. I HAVE NO REGRETS DOING IT."

"One of my best friends just sent me the parents wish email and I cried. Just like everyone.  My mom and dad taught me how to live, laugh and play. But also how to respect and help other people. It is not only important to live the life you want, but also to get old and die the way you wish. With dignitary and honor and if at all possible, with as many laughs and playful smiles as possible. I cried when I watched the Parents Wish slide-show presentation. Every slide hit my heart. Giving me reassurance that I have and will continue to make the right decisions. Thanks for the support. I really needed it."

"I just received this from a very nice friend and how moving. Totally awesome! This sure hits home to me because I am now living with my parents and watching them get older every day. Wow sure is true. I am so glad I took the time to listen to it. Hope everyone will listen to it just one time. It may help you understand more. Thanks to Josh Groban. Janie"

"My mom sent this to my 3 brothers and I and what a wonderful vessel to help middle age children understand the road parents are on. Although the thought of ever losing my parents is very scary and sad, the life lessons our parents have taught us will be with us forever. Thank you."

"Your Parents' Wish is beautiful."

"Thank you ever so much for this slide, it is what all children should keep in mind and I am glad I have my mom close to me 24/7. F. Ali, London "

"I received this slide show last August 2007. My mother had just been diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. She had just turned 66 and was never sick. She got ill quickly, was diagnosed and 8 weeks later passed away. When I got this slide show, my family and myself were taking care of her at home. We were trying to get her to eat and couldn't. We tried to get her into the bath but we couldn't. She had been telling us stories over and over. So this really hit me when I got it. I have it saved on my computer. It makes me cry everytime I see it. BUT it reminds me of her. Thank you. Terri"

May 20, 2008

"It is timely for me as I am now entering this era of confusion, depression, and lack of understanding.  I am a war torn Marine during the Vietnam era. Only 2 weeks ago did my 30 year old son (a commercial pilot), made me aware of my diminished writing capacities. He did so in a loving and thoughtful understated way. He responded to a text mail while he was at the southern tip of South America and I in North America: 'Dad, I know in your heart, you honestly think you have forwarded electronic messages and really believe all of the completed thoughts are in structured sentences. But Dad, you have always written things in haste, perhaps you need to be more careful and edit what you send. All my Love, Ryan."  In a subsequent e-mail, he wrote: 'We all love you so much Dad. I can remember as a little boy, there were things I did not like - that I saw. But, I would never tell you, because I thought you may have invented them.'  The most endearing statement on his email says: 'Dad, if I stayed home and being there would help you, I would hang up my wings tomorrow.'  I say soar Son, Soar On! Love, Dad. (All my three children are professionals:  a Broadway actress, college Councilor, and Lear Jet 45XR Captain). This came to me and I sent it too them. Thank you, I maybe able to finish the good life with company!"

"I wish to be added to this list of grateful viewers. This single item said more to my children, which I would have been able to share this late in life. I maybe only 63, but through war, rode hard and put away wet. I was in the Marine Corps qualified on 2 of their Aerial Assets. There has been many miles put on my platform."

"I was moved to tears. This is a very important and beautiful piece. I live in a senior community and plan to share it with many friends. Thank you so much."

"This made me weep. My 92 year old Dad tells his same stories again and again. I try to listen as if I were hearing them for the first time but it’s not easy. Thank you so much for making this video. I save and play it again as a reminder to be as caring and patient with my Dad as he was with me growing up."

May 19, 2008

"It was a very touching movie of child and parents. I enjoyed it immensely!"

"I lost my father 5 years ago and never realized what he must have been going through each day as he continued to age. I never saw him in that light because he was such a strong force in our family and the one we always leaned on. I did notice how he started getting tired and napping more even though he tried to hide it from time to time. Now I’m taking care of my mother and each day I see her slip a little more. Although I truly cherish every day I have her with me, I still need to be reminded the same points so poignantly and beautifully expressed in this email. As many of you know, being a caregiver while it can be rewarding can also be trying and stressful especially if you are still working. I never regret moving back because it gave me time with them together and now very special times with my mom. We have become very close through this journey. Words cannot express my thanks to those who created this and to those who continue to share it with others like me. My tears were gratefully shed."

May 18, 2008

"I was very touched by the presentation."

"It's a beautiful piece. Thank you for creating it and making it available. Would love to have a CD of it when available."

"As a person who was severely disabled by an uninsured drunk driver 17 years ago who then was a single Mom with kids aged 5, 18 and 20 who has been virtually ignored by these kids who are now married with families of their own, I relate to your issue verrrrrrrry well. However I stress to my kids that their own kids and mates are watching closely how they treat me and these kids and mates may likely feel totally justified, and even be determined, to treat them the very same way they are treating me should they ever need help or when the get older. I think that might make the children of your audience feel even more concerned about how they treat their parents. Thank you for what you're doing."

"I received this video a few years ago and it was somehow deleted. I was so happy to get it again. It is so beautiful and well done. My mom had just recently died when I originally saw it. It helped immensely to understand a bit of what she was going through losing her independence at the age of 90 1/2. She just gave up and wouldn't eat and eventually went into Hospice and peacefully passed away. Very easy on her and so hard on me - her only child. At the time her passing was somewhat of a  'release' but as the months and years go on I miss her even more. If you have a parent alive, please treasure every minute with them - you can't get them back. BJH"

"I thought it was beautiful I sat there crying while I was it over and over. Just beautiful and how very true."

May 17, 2008

"I just viewed this and was touched by it."

May 16, 2008

"A friend forwarded the link to me and it is so completely accurate as to the way I am trying to treat my father now - he has always been there for me and I hope that I can show half the patience and love to him that he has shown me my entire life. thanks for putting it so eloquently -- Bob Meyer"

"I teach nurses aide classes at a nursing home and would like to include your wonderful CD on graduation day. Yes, it will make them cry, but what a gift for all of us to share. Thank you, Debbie"

"I just love Josh Groban and the pairing of his song with the poignant words in the video just made me cry. My dad died 2 years ago from Alzheimer's and all of what was said just brought back his behavior during the years before his death. This was a powerful video and I sent it to my entire address book."

"I have experienced care giving for both my parents, my in laws, all gone now. Tears rolled down my cheeks. Several of my dear friends also have recently had this experience."

"My mom was in the hospital when my niece sent your movie to me. After crying my eyes out and asking God for forgiveness, I went to the hospital and talked to her about every situation mentioned in the film and how appreciative I was for all she did for me and what an honor it was for me to have the opportunity to help her. We talked about everything in this film which led to other great topics of discussion and we both thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing about our lives together and how God blessed us in so many ways including the opportunity to talk about everything before either of us were unable to have this kind of conversation. When her time came to go to heaven (only a couple of weeks after we started our initial conversation) we had had many beautiful, meaningful talks guided by the ideas in your film. I feel we both knew how much we loved one another and how thankful we were that God brought us together as mother and son. Thank you for putting this together and please let all involved in its creation know there are no words that can express how grateful I am for what this film motivated me to do. Steve Hadder"

"I heard you on Good Morning America this morning( 5/16/08 ) and went back in my files and brought up Parents Wish again. It is so touching and I have sent it to all my children. Such a beautiful tribute and such a lovely voice!! Thank you so much. I have this in my permanent files and play it over and over and over!!"

May 15, 2008

"I have been entertaining seniors for 11 years. My own mother is now 96. I do it as a volunteer and enjoy every moment as I see the residents and their children, grand children and great grandchildren faces. Your video captures what I have seen and why I keep going back. There is so much to be shared and understood. Keep up the good work. Tom Davis, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada"

"Thanking you all for such a lovely presentation on what everyone should feel and do for their parents and loved ones. I presently take care of my father, an uncle and my mother-in-law. I have had others criticize me for not taking more time for myself, but I do this because I want to and because I love them, not for personal gain. I gain for myself when I see the love and gratitude being returned to me for taking the time to care. I will be there someday myself and I hope there will be someone else who cares to take their valuable time to be with me because they care about me."

"I can’t put into all the words what an amazing and inspirational message this is."

"Wish this wonderful show could be seen by everyone having older parents or grandparents. My Mother is 99 (will be 100 in December 2008)...my sister gets SO upset with her, because she thinks Daddy (who died four years ago) is visiting her in the Nursing Center. I received the Josh thing months ago, and play it at least once a week...after visiting Mother. Thanks. Nedra in Missouri."

"BEAUTIFUL, this was sent to me by my father and how blessed I am to be able to say that. I pray that I will always be able to remember the amazing love of my parents especially when they need it most. Thank you for such a wonderful video!"