HIS OFFICE

Eighty-four year old “Ogden” suffered from lymphoma. He was diagnosed four years ago. Ogden had been doing quite well, although was slowly losing some of his energy. He used to walk a mile each morning to buy the daily newspaper or take care of his half acre property. Activities he no longer has been able to manage.

I first met Ogden about twenty months ago when his wife came onto hospice. Coincidently months before then, I met Ogden’s daughter, “Annie” when she was the primary caretaker for her aunt, her mother’s sister, who was on hospice. A few months after her aunt died, Ogden’s wife, Rita” came onto hospice. Rita suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease. Ogden hired a full time caretaker to attend to his wife’s needs. Annie, again, was the primary contact and support person.

Ogden and Annie loved Rita. Rita was bed bound and so confused, but always had a smile. She didn’t understand what was happening, but was so easy going and receptive to any help that was offered. I would always meet with Ogden and we would talk in his office. A very large desk sat in the middle of the room. His desk chair swiveled conveniently right near his computer. Also his chair was conveniently situated to watch the stock market channel, his favorite station. He was very content and said that he rarely went into any other room of his home.

Rita died ten months ago peacefully in her home. I knew Ogden was heartbroken, but he also understood that Rita was in a better place and no longer suffering. Due to his spiritual beliefs, Ogden believed he and Rita would be together again one day.

Three months ago, Ogden and my life crossed again when he was admitted to hospice. I was happy to see him, but a bit sad as he was so much thinner and weaker than the last time we saw each other. Ogden still had his amazing smile and, again, welcomed the hospice staff so warmly into his home.

With each visit, Ogden and I would meet in his office. He would always sit at his desk and I would sit on the side of his hospital bed a few feet away. Ogden spoke of Rita frequently and their sixty years of marriage. His decline was slow and he knew he would be with her soon. I visited Ogden five days ago and, as usual, he was sitting in his desk chair. When I said goodbye, I had no idea that it would be the last time I would see him.

I heard this morning that Ogden died yesterday with his family at his side. I feel sad, although I know he is now with Rita. I will miss him as he was always a joy to be around. Some folks cross our path for a reason. Ogden will always have a place in my heart.

　

HIS OFFICE

　
He was always in his office.
It had everything he needed.
His computer, his bed, his TV.
Everything within arms reach.

He was most comfortable there.
While his wife was sick;
when he too became ill.
It was his sanctuary.

I have known him for almost two years.
I don’t think we talked any other place.
He was always in his office,
welcoming me with his wide grin.

His wife’s been gone almost a year.
He talks about her all of the time.
How much he misses her.
How he knows he’ll be with her soon.

We talked in his office just last week.
He in his desk chair; me nearby.
Talking about his wife and children.
Sharing stories of his life.

Now he is gone.
The end came quite suddenly.
He dying where he was most comfortable.
I know where he chose to be.
          His office.