I have often wondered why this is the case. Maybe it is just a social construct or expectation that women automatically take on. Even if there is some truth to this, I have known any number of sensitive men and self involved women who would act in a way contrary to gender stereotypes. Or maybe it has to do with birth order or career success. Older siblings tend to be given more responsibility than younger ones and are often expected to deal with the most difficult family challenges. Age considerations would apply to me, but not to you. It appears you were the youngest girl. As far as career success, one would think that those with the greatest means would be expected to be most responsible for caring for family members. Unfortunately, too often I see selfishness take precedence over the needs of those who should be closest to us.

It is clear from your article that you had the means and job flexibility to take care of your sister. It seems equally clear that this may have been a factor in your decision, but I get no sense that it was the motivation for why you were there. What I see is a woman with a strong sense of empathy whose heart went out to a family member you loved deeply. On a fundamental level you knew what your sister wanted and needed. How could you not have been there for her?

You talk about the bond between women. I think we are naturally more empathetic than men. We feel deeply. We are concerned with what other people need—what they are thinking and feeling. We are always looking for ways to be collaborative and build relationships. With sisters, it is even more so. There is an almost spiritual connection that cannot really be described, just experienced. In the midst of your grief, I hope that you found peace during the time you had to spend together. I think we all look back at the ones we have lost and wonder what we could have done differently, how we could have spent more quality time together. I sense in your case few regrets, rather a feeling of closure—that it was enough to just love her, to help her, to be there for her at the end of her life. I certainly hope it was so.