THE CHANCE

Today I had the opportunity to say goodbye to a patient I had known only three months. I did weekly visits as it was important for her to be able to process her emotions. This was a new diagnosis of cancer and her decline was swift.

Visiting today, I found her to be actively dying. She had not eaten for over a week. She was lying in her hospital bed with labored breathing. Her eyes were open, but she wasn’t seeing, although she appeared, at times, to understand what was being said to her. Even though she and I had only met three months ago, we instantly bonded. Immediately we both knew we were kindred spirits. I mentioned to the patient how we were kindred spirits and I heard her weakly reply, “We are.”

Many patients will let go once they know their family is going to be okay. Some patients may have unfinished business or they may be waiting for a special birthday or anniversary date. There are multiple reasons why someone lets go at any particular time. I just know that it is always the perfect time for them. I felt honored to have been able to say my goodbyes to her today.

Addendum: Her daughter flew in from out of state two days later. The following morning, the patient died peacefully with her three children by her side. It was the perfect time for her.


THE CHANCE

　
Thank you for giving me the chance;
the chance to say goodbye.
Thank you for allowing me to tell you
the impact you made on so many of us.

It was hard to find the fitting words;
words that clearly could express my heart.
I hope you heard the love, the honor and the respect;
that I was attempting to convey.

I know you didn’t want this to happen,
but I know your faith is strong.
You biggest worry has always been your children.
You want to know that they’ll be okay.

I promised you I would make sure of that
in the best way that I knew how.
Phone calls, follow-up, comfort.
The support will be available to all of them.

So when the time is right for you;
when all your work has been done,
let go, fly high and soar
when you have the perfect chance.