Cancer survivor here, so it does happen. The best thing I ever did was to move back to Oregon to be close to my parents in their last years. It was very rewarding as I wound up being their caretaker. Many times it was difficult but I have no regrets and am happy I spent as much time as possible with them. Had I done otherwise I would be having deep regrets now.
I see her/them today. I’m close but not in the same town. Your example is why I’m trying to wrap things up in 5 years. Life is too short to work past that age.