Problem
I. Aileen Milligan is an 83 year old Irish American woman with extremely swollen feet, ankles, and lower calves in both legs. She is a widow who lives independently, but her daughter Harriet, visits several times per month to help with chores, do the grocery shopping, and prepare some meals that she freezes for later use. During her last visit Harriett notices the swollen ankles and asks what the doctor said at her Mother's appointment earlier in the week. Mrs. Milligan says the doctor told her she was "just fine." She reports that the doctor, who she characterizes as "such a nice and kind young man", said nothing about her heart, blood pressure, or circulation. Harriett asks permission to call the doctor to report the swelling and find out what she should do, but Mrs. Milligan refuses, saying "Oh my. Don't go bothering the Doctor, dear. He's very busy and this is really nothing to worry about. My feet puff up a little like this when I sit or stand for too long."
i. What cultural factors may be contributing to Mrs. Milligan's reluctance to have her daughter contact the doctor?
ii. What advice would you give to Harriett? To Mrs. Milligan?
II. John Patrick Mahoney was a successful businessman who died of a stroke at the age of 90. He was predeceased by his wife, Hildegard (Fairhaven), in 1971. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Bridget (O'Hara) Mahoney, 6 children, 12 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church at 11am. Following interment at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, a wake will be held at the family business, Mahoney's Irish Pub on Garret Road. Mr. Mahney left instructions that upon his death family and friends should celebrate his life by consuming his special collection of fine spirits, wines, and ales while listening to music played by his favorite Irish band.
i. Would you be comfortable attending a party after a funeral? Why? Why not?
ii. Describe the role of the Irish Pub in family and community life for Irish Americans.
iii. Mr. Mahoney left specific written instructions for his funeral and wake, but this will cost the family business money and some of the grandchildren are thinking about their inheritance. What role do generational differences in values and beliefs play in family dynamics?