HE HAS

Sixty-three year old, "Bill", was diagnosed with throat cancer three years ago. He has since been on a feeding tube as can no longer swallow any food or liquid. Bill was referred to hospice as there is no further treatment for him.

Bill lives in the small town where he was born and raised. Three of his children live close by. Bill has a tremendous number of family and friends who are so involved and supportive. He lives in a very tiny apartment in the rough part of town. The strongest impression is all that he doesn't have.

The minute one walks into his tiny apartment, that first impression is immediately gone. Bill has so much love for others and a strong acceptance of personal challenges. We spoke about the loss of not being able to eat or taste food. Food is such a part of every culture in the world. It is a large part of what we do when family is visiting or we are on vacation.

Bill spoke about his losses in such a positive way. He totally has accepted his cancer and limitations. He has a lot of humor and laughs so easily. He knows that he cannot fight his cancer. He has chosen to accept it and continue to enjoy his life to the fullest. He sees death as "an adventure." Bill is such an amazing teacher to us all.


HE HAS

First impressions are powerful.
Conclusions come flying pretty fast.
He lives in such a small apartment.
Hardly any place to sit yourself down.

He's fought his cancer for several years.
A feeding tube keeps him alive.
He has no teeth, his clothes are frayed,
He has so little to get by.

But he astounds you with his attitude.
He smiles, he laughs, he is an amazing guy.
His positive thinking; his corny humor.
His philosophy is, "One step at a time."

He has no fears about dying.
He's not sure about heaven or hell.
"I am at peace with my God.
Death will take us where we need to go."

Initially one notices what he has not,
but once meeting him, you observe so much more.
He has peace, acceptance, love in his life,
while embracing his challenges with open arms.

One can't help noticing
           all that
                     he has.