WHO HELPED WHOM?

I first met Ken and Lou a year ago. Ken came onto hospice suffering from stomach cancer. They both were in their eighties and were married sixty-two years. This was a very close-knit and loving family. They had three children who were so involved and present for their parents.

Ken’s health declined slowly over the six months I visited, but he would always have a smile no matter what. Not much ever got him down. Ken and Lou were devoted to each other. Ken always insisted that Lou go to the local pool to swim at least twice a week. Lou loved swimming and had many girlfriends there who gave her the needed support.

Each time I visited, the two of them would always ask how I was doing. We would talk about local restaurants, shops, nurseries etc. It seemed like most visits were just social, although I was able to help both of them, now and then, with their grief of experiencing such a loss.

I had not seen them for six months after leaving my position. I found out from the hospice nurse last week, that Ken had died. Lou had told the nurse to make sure I knew and that she would like me to come to the funeral. I was so honored to have been invited.

As I was leaving the cemetery, I went up to Lou to say goodbye. It was then she told me how I had helped both of them. I was a bit surprised, but humbled by her response. It is so easy to see what others give us, but most often, we are not aware of what we give in return. I truly believe that each and every one of us make a difference each day. We probably would be surprised at how many people we have helped along the way. To all of you; keep up the good work.


WHO HELPED WHOM?

I met them about a year ago.
I liked them from the start.
The conversation would immediately start
once I stepped foot into their home.

He shared these fascinating stories
about being a test pilot in the military.
He laughed while he told me how he once
crashed a million dollar fighter plane.

I didn’t need to visit as often as I did,
but they were such a joy to be around.
I didn’t feel that I did that much for them,
but they were always happy to see me come.

I hadn’t seem them for many months
since no longer carrying a caseload.
I found out he died last week.
She asked for me to come.

I was there as much for them as for me.
I teased her and said I didn’t do much for either of you.
She turned serious and replied,
“Yes you did. You were always there for us.”

One only sees what comes in.
We don’t notice what we give out.
I just know I am so glad to have met them.
Helping them indeed helped me too.