SIX WEEKS

“Susan” suffers from a rare neurological disease that was diagnosed seven years ago. The first symptoms she and her husband, “Bill” noticed was that she could not find the right words to express what she was trying to say. Throughout the seven years, Susan continues to slowly decline. She is wobbly on her feet and needs someone to hold onto her when she walks.

Susan has so much expression in her face. She tries so hard to say a word or two, but her words are garbled and make no sense. You can see the frustration on her face and she will either get very angry or cry so hard. Her emotions fluctuate so extremely. During the hospice’s nurse and my visit, we witnessed so many emotional up and downs with her.

My heart just felt such sadness as to all that she has been through. I have done hospice for many years and still have no understanding as to why anyone has to go through so much trauma and pain. She made me feel so grateful for all that I have; especially good health.

Susan is still giving out to others as she has taught me to embrace each moment as that is all that any of us have. Thank you Susan.


SIX WEEKS　

Reading her extensive medical history,
one assumed she was elderly and frail.
One was truly convinced upon meeting her
as poor health left her vulnerable and weak.

She suffers from a rare neurological disease
that was diagnosed seven years ago.
She’s been in a slow, but steady decline.
Becoming more dependent each day.

She cannot understand or speak any words,
although tries so hard to let her needs be known.
She will get angry and frustrated;
then suddenly cry heart wrenching tears.

He has so much love and patience with her.
He’s kind with a gentle touch.
He’s lost his beautiful wife seven years ago
knowing she will never be coming back.

I connected with her emotionally.
It’s like she knew how much I cared.
She smiled and held my hand so tightly
making it hard for me to let go.

She immediately impacted my heart so deeply.
Sheer sadness as to what all she’s been through.
“There for but the grace of God go I”
as, surprisingly, I am
          six weeks older than she.