During the long weeks where I just didn't know if we should keep fighting or put Tamlin to sleep, I spent several hours on the phone with CarMel.  She told me a story about the time she went through the same thing.  The day finally came when she knew it was time.  She assured me that we would know when that time was.  The moment that Jessie and me both knew it was time, we both thought of CarMel's words.  We looked at each other and said, "She told us we would know, and we do."  Her words helped us greatly in that moment in time.

Later that night she sent us a poem to read.  Although it made me cry, it also made me feel strangely better.  Maybe it will help someone else who has to make this decision.
 

If It Should Be... 

If it should be I grow frail and weak,
And pain prevents my peaceful sleep
Then, you must do what must be done
When this last battle can't be won. 

You will be sad, I understand
Selfishness may stay your hand. 
But on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship take the test. 

We've had so many happy years
That what's to come can hold no fears. 
You'd not want me to suffer-- So, 
When the time comes, please let me go. 

Take me where my needs they'll tend
Only -- stay with me until the end. 
Hold me firm and speak to me 
Until my eyes no longer see. 

I know, in time, you too will see 
It is kindness that you do for me. 
Although my tail its last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved. 

Do not grieve. It should be you
Who must decide this thing to do. 
We've been so close, we two these years....... 
Don't let your heart hold any tears. 

Author Unknown