MAMA'S BOY

Sixty-six year old “Brenda” just came onto hospice as she has been in declining health for months. She has multiple medical problems to where now, she is unable to walk and needs assistance when transferring to her wheelchair or bed. Brenda’s husband had been caring for her until six months ago when he died after a sudden illness.

Since that time, Brenda’s eldest son, “Matt” has been staying with her. He is not working and is available to be with his mother to attend to her needs. At first glance, he looks like a tough, rough around the edges kind of guy. He is tall and husky with a powerful voice. His demeanor softens immediately when he looks at his mom.

He has been in prison twice for robbery. Both times it was after the death of someone with whom he was very close. He says he has learned his lesson, but when I asked him about how he thinks he will do when his mother is gone, he replied, “I don’t even want to think about it.” Fortunately, hospice has a very extensive bereavement follow-up for support. Hopefully he will be receptive to the help we have available for him.

I was surprised when he shared that he has been called a “Mama’s Boy”. He is anything, but that. He has many supportive friends nearby with whom he treats like family. During my visit, many were coming and going and checking in on both of them. They have a large network of support.

Looks are deceiving and it is always best not to judge someone by the way they appear. You may be surprised, more often than not, once you get to know them.


MAMA’S BOY
　

She was eighteen when he was born.
They’ve always been so close.
She watched over him as he grew to a man.
Now it is his turn to attend to her.

She been sick for many months.
She needs a lot of help.
He lovingly attends to her every need,
like he promised he always would.

They’ve had many struggles along the way.
Their lives have been difficult at times.
His two terms in state prison;
felony charges he can never forget.

His heart of gold is hidden somewhat
by his rugged physique and demeanor.
His body scarred by vicious assaults;
his forceful voice demanding attention.

He’s been called a “Mama’s Boy,”
because his love for her is devout.
The two of them have a special bond;
but he is as masculine as they come.

He may appear intimidating to some.
He may be rough around the edges.
Let them call him a “Mama’s Boy”,
but he is a very compassionate son
giving his mother what all of us need;
a tremendous heart bursting with love.