StoryCorps' MobileBooth is in Kansas City until September to collect the stories and memories of residents. This is one in a series of stories KCUR has chosen to highlight.
Facing the end of life often brings hard choices. Diane Botwin decided to have her father, Dr. A. E. Botwin, move in with her family 20 years ago when his health began to fade.
"I'm not sure I ever thought I had any other choice. I felt pretty solitary in many ways," Diane told her son Solomon Alpert. "A few friends in particular said, 'You're such a saint to put up with this.'"
Solomon said that, while there were bad moments, he cherished the opportunity to help his grandfather pass with dignity.
"It felt good to give him the opportunity to die in a way where he wasn't extracted from his home or family," Solomon said. "I remember I held his hand for ... a long time."
"I almost couldn't watch it," Diane added.
After seven years, Dr. Botwin passed away. Diane and Solomon recorded their experiences at the StoryCorps MobileBooth in August.
Matthew Long-Middleton is a community producer for KCUR 89.3. Follow him on Twitter @MLMIndustries.
Cody Newill is an audience development specialist for KCUR 89.3. Follow him on Twitter @CodyNewill.
