My mom was my best friend, so it made sense for me to quit my stressful job so we could spend the last few months of her life together

• My mother and I were always close and I saw her as my best friend. • Her health issues began to get complicated at the same time I my job was becoming more stressful. • I decided to make a change so I could spend more time with her during her last few months alive.

At times, grief can be an overwhelming experience that feels like a roller coaster. It can also remind us of all the good things in life and the choices we've made that put us in a place to experience happiness in the first place.

I made one of those choices in early 2024 — deciding to leave my job as a reporter to focus on spending time with my ailing mom. It was that decision that enabled me to spend the last several months of my mom's life with her.

My mom and I have always been close

When I look back, it's easy to