Call Me a Rose
Chapter 45

Diara is happy because finally Mama agreed to do radiation therapy in accordance with the advice of doctors. In addition, as the day the condition of the mother improved. And that day coincided with Mama's fifty-third birthday, all the family members gathered to look forward to Mama's return. Yes, you have the desire to go home first a few days before going to the hospital again for further treatment.

Diara and Tomi are in the hospital to take care of the return and pick up Mama. While Papa was at home with Tedy and Tiara, two children Kak Tomi, as well as Mbak Naya who was busy preparing dishes and birthday cakes to welcome Mama later.

As soon as Mama gets home and opens the door, Tiara and Tedy sing a happy birthday song while carrying a cake decorated with small candles ready to blow.

Mama who was sitting on a wheelchair with Tomi pushed, seemed touched by the welcome given by her granddaughter.

"You guys, Mama's old like this, why would a birthday wear everything? You guys are a hassle, right?"

Mama pretended to nag, but in her heart was pleased with the warmth of the welcome she received.

"Blow the candle dong nek!"

Tiara protested without caring about her grandmother's nagging.

My mom finally blew out the candles.

"Thank you very much, baby..."

Mama said, then took turns kissing her grandchildren's forehead.

Mama gave the first piece of cake to Papa. Papa accepted it and returned to feed Mama. They throw each other smiles and look friendly. But looking at that scene Tomi instead chose to throw away his face. Diara realizes that a cold war is going on between Papa and her brother. But Diara doesn't care. This beautiful day is too precious to be marred with insignificant problems.

The day's event continued with a meal together at the large dining table at the house of Papa and Mama. A moment that is quite rare, because it has been a long time since they did not eat at the dining table with this complete formation.

"Thank you so much Mama's children, thank you for getting together and being next to Mama when you have to go through tough times. There is always wisdom behind the disaster. And having you by your side is immeasurable happiness for Mama..."

The lunch that day was so warm, yet somehow there was a feeling of sadness that permeated Diara's heart. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the meal at the table. There is yellow rice complete with side dishes ordered by Naya from a fairly famous catering. After all finished eating lunch, there was the sound of the dhuhur adhan reverberating.

"Already adhan, how about if we pray together first?"

After the prayer was over, they continued to pray each one. But suddenly, in that solemn atmosphere, Mama fell down on her alphabet.

"Mama..."

Diara approached Mama, and saw her Mama's face sweating. Mama painstakingly adjusted her breathing while holding her chest.

Diara laid Mama on the prayer mat.

"Where is this, brother?"

"We're taking Mama to the hospital!"

But as Diara was about to move, Mama's weak hands held him back.

"Don't go anywhere, please accompany Mama for a moment" said Mama stammeringly.

Tomi finally decided to call the ambulance without leaving Mama.

Mama's breath seemed to grow. Papa came closer and held Mama's hand.

"I'm sorry...I'm sorry Diana..."

My mother faintly nodded.

Papa then guided Mama to say two sentences of shahada, before finally Mama breathed her last.

Innalillahi Wa Innailahi.

Finally Mama passed away peacefully, at home, accompanied by family, as she wished.