FINAL WORDS

Eighty-eight year old, “Rhonda”, suffered from lung cancer. Rhonda had been widowed for over twenty-five years and had always been very independent. Rhonda had three adult children, who all lived nearby. All three were actively involved in their mother’s care and increasing needs.

Rhonda was on hospice for less than two months. I only made a few visits, but each time I walked into her bedroom, her face would light up and she would smile. She was pretty weak the entire time she was on our program. Much of her day was spent lying in her hospital bed. The family hired a twenty-four hour caregiver to assist mom. It worked out well for the family, as then they could focus on being Rhonda’s children and not her caretaker.

This was a very devoted family and it was so clear how much Rhonda loved her children and grandchildren; of which there were many. Rhonda died two days ago and I called her daughter, “Denise” to offer condolences. Denise shared stories about her mom; the most wonderful being Rhonda’s last words to her daughter.

In addition, Denise shared that last week her mother wanted everyone in the family to come for a visit. Denise assumed Mom wanted to give everyone one last goodbye. The gathering was planned for this evening. She said “I guess my mom won’t be there, after all.” I assured her that her mom will be there in spirit. The family just has to feel her presence.

The family is at peace about their mother’s death as Denise said it was very peaceful and very quiet. It is what most of us hope for.


FINAL WORDS
　

I called her to check in.
I wanted to offer support.
The family had suffered another earlier loss,
so I hoped they were doing alright. 

She said she was doing just fine.
“I have my moments of missing her,
but her passing was quiet and peaceful.
We knew she was ready to go.”

Her family was always her priority.
There was never any doubt.
She loved it when all were together.
They were that important to her.

Her maternal instinct rang true.
She was still taking care of them,
for she waited for all to leave;
then, quietly slipped away.

Her final words to her daughter
have given the family great strength.
Words they won’t soon forget;
letting them know she is fine.

With her daughter at the bedside,
she softly said, “I’m happy.”
Two simple words so profound.
Then, hours later she was gone;
          peacefully.