Claire and family,
My prayers and thoughts are with you. My brother and I held my mom's hands while she passed on April, 9, 2011. There were about 15 other family members in the room holding us in their hearts. It was one of the most difficult and rewarding momemts in my life. My mom was 80 years old and had a good life. She was ready for release from the ALS. I miss my mom and friend but know that helping her go with no regrets was the right thing. At one time I could not have imagined encouraging my mom to let go of this world and take flight in the next. But there I sat with tears streaming down my face doing just that. I felt such comfort and sense of peace.