The one about Jody and Grandpa

This month, my Grandpa Corso turned 95 and Jody turned 92. Quick side note: when my sister and I were born, Jody felt she was too young to be a grandmother (at age 53) and wanted us to call her by her first name-- hence 'Jody and Grandpa.' Upon the arrival of more grandchildren, she evidently felt it was time and became known as 'Grams' to the rest of the grandkids. But to me--- she's my Jody.

November took a turn for our family as we needed to get additional assistance for Grandpa—he and Jody had been living in their own home doing just fine, thriving in their 90’s. But there comes a point. And we reached that point. It was a bit of a shakeup for us as it's hard to come to grips with change like this-- especially when the memory of one is gone and no longer knows you as a wife, son, grandchild.

Initially, Jody felt a sense of relief-- as the woman had needed a break. But one week in, she realized more than the break, she needed him. She needed the comfort and presence of the man who had been with her for more than 60 years.

Grandpa is now in full time care and Jody drives over to visit as often as she can. This photo portrays how they take their nap now each day. Jody drives over around 10:30am, feeds him lunch, then wheels him into a sitting room where they sit side by side, hand in hand, and take their afternoon nap.

I’ll be honest, I’ve not seen this side of them before. The shows of affection haven’t always been evident, but in this stage of life, seeing them cling to each other has been so sweet for me to witness.

They are a big reason I chose the Carolinas. Knowing they are in the last few years of their life made me want to lean in and be close. Celebrating their lives and their commitment to each other. Happy Birthday to Jody and Grandpa!