WHAT HELPS YOU?

We admitted, “Lonnie”, to our hospice program today. Lonnie was diagnosed with Liver Cancer three years ago. Lonnie went through multiple treatments, but now his doctor said there is no more.

Lonnie lives with his son, “Ryan”. Ryan is on leave from his work and is available to help his dad full time. Ryan is so focused on caring for his dad and is doing a beautiful job. Lonnie cannot say enough how appreciative he is of Ryan. The two have a fantastic relationship.

The moment we walked in, Lonnie started to talk. He needed to tell us his story. Lonnie had a great sense of humor as was very witty. Lonnie would talk serious for a moment about his disease, and then would start to say something funny and laugh. He was so much fun to be around.

Near the end of our visit, I asked Lonnie how he is coping with it all. His answer was so amazing and beautiful. His answer is what draws me to do hospice work, as to me, it really isn’t work at all. Thank you Lonnie.


WHAT HELPS YOU?

I am amazed by our hospice patients.
I am in awe at how they cope.
Using tactics that have always worked for them.
They will all deal with this in their own natural way.

I often ask patients, "What helps you?"
"How do you manage to get through each day?"
Many answer, "Oh the normal way."
And then I am so surprised by what I do hear.

He's been struggling for over two years.
The cancer has now rapidly spread.
These past few weeks have been tough on him.
Weaker, short of breath, not walking at all.

He cannot thank his son enough
for all the help that he does give.
He hates being so dependent,
but then his humor helps him through.

The minute we walked in, he started to talk.
He needed to tell us his story.
Using humor, he spoke about his cancer,
while telling us tales about way back when.

"What is helping you get through each day?"
“What is helping you cope?”
He became somber as his thoughts turned within.
He answered in only one word.

That word was spoken softly,
as was from deep in his heart.
He turned to both of us and gently said,
          “You”.