[pennsiveguy]

I'm counting my blessings, reading all the posts in this thread. My amazing, ageless 81-year old mother is in fantastic health. Still walks 40-50,000 steps per week, even in the cold winter in the Upper Midwest. Doesn't take any medication of any kind, other than a twice-a-year shot for osteoporosis and a half-bottle of wine daily. She's still mentally perfectly sharp, and will easily own your ass in a debate if you don't have facts to back up your assertions. She has a very active (virtual these days) social life, mostly with friends who are 20-30 years younger than she is. She only rarely needs help from me - mainly things like the other day when I hauled her Christmas tree down out of the attic for her. We're fairly close, though like all mothers she would prefer to hear from me more often.

One day her decline will begin, and I'll appreciate the support of this forum. Wishing peace, grace, and courage to those less fortunate here.