A MAN

Eighteen year old, "Kyle", was sitting in his father's hospital room waiting for us to come. His father was in a coma and unresponsive. We walked into a nearby private room to talk. Kyle sat across from me so stoic and quiet. I knew he was a college student, but when I asked him his age, I was surprised to hear he was only eighteen.

Kyle's mother died five years ago. He said his father was his support at that time. Now the only family is an uncle flying in tonight from a nearby state. His uncle is the agent on his father's advanced health care directive. During the visit, the doctor came in to talk with us. We got Kyle's uncle on the phone, who, along with Kyle, both agreed that the patient would not want any aggressive treatment.

Kyle sat so ramrod straight and didn't say much, but his face showed so much sadness. We discussed funeral planning and other tough questions. Kyle would answer so clearly as he and his dad had recently talked about his dad's wishes. I had to ask some tough questions and Kyle would be so straightforward when answering me.

I told Kyle to let his dad know that his uncle would be here later tonight. I am hoping that his dad will hold on until then, so that Kyle will have family support. He was such a sweet kid. I had tears as I walked away. It seems so unfair for him to have to bear this burden. I hope he gets the support he needs.


A MAN

He sat there so stoic.
His back ramrod straight.
Eyes staring into mine.
Not knowing what to do.

It happened so suddenly.
His dad had been doing fine.
Now he is unresponsive;
dying before his son's eyes.

His mother died five years ago.
He had his dad for support then.
Now the only family left is an uncle,
who is flying in on a late flight.

Being asked tough questions.
Questions regarding life and death.
Comfort care versus invasive treatment.
What would your father want?

He seems so mature,
but then he is only eighteen.
Having to grow up so abruptly.
Expecting to be
       without warning;
               a man.