When Nicholas Montemarano’s parents contracted covid a few days before Christmas 2020, his primary concern leaned towards his father due to his existing health complications. For his 79-year-old mother, Catherine Montemarano, doctors initially prescribed steroids and antibiotics. However, an escalation in her fever led to her admittance to an Indiana hospital on New Year’s Eve.
Catherine’s health showed a brief improvement on January 6, 2021; however, it quickly deteriorated, pushing doctors towards suggesting palliative care. The news drove Nicholas to embark on a 600-mile journey from his home in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, amidst the chaos happening at the U.S. Capitol.
On January 15, Nicholas and his twin sister, a nurse, were given permission to envelope themselves in personal protective equipment and accompany their mother in her final hours. Nicholas expressed that their presence eased the unimaginable pain of losing their mother.
A funeral mass was held, attended by 10 family members including Nicholas’s wife and son. Known for her Catholic faith, Catherine, a legal secretary, also supported foster children worldwide, sending them photos and letters.
Months later, Nicholas discovered a virtual support group that featured a **commemorative** flag project. He registered a flag and embarked on a trip to Washington D.C with his family. The sight of the installation and death toll sign sparked uncontrollable tears, which didn’t cease until he found his mother’s flag. This experience gave Nicholas and his family a sense of closure and shared mourning.
Following his mother’s passing, Nicholas, a creative writing professor and published novelist, wrote a memoir, “If There Are Any Heavens,” which was published in July 2022. Reflecting on the experience, he acknowledged the irreparable loss of losing a loved one.
Vocabulary Words and Definitions:
1. **Contracted**: In a medical context, contracted refers to catching or developing an illness or disease.
2. **Admittance**: Admittance technically means being allowed to enter a place. In the context of healthcare, it often refers to being admitted to a hospital for treatment.
3. **Palliative Care**: This is a specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the family.
4. **Commemorative**: Something that is done to remember officially and give respect to a great person or event.
5. **Memoir**: A memoir is a book that someone writes about their own life. It is generally less comprehensive and more anecdotal than an autobiography.
