HIS HEART

"Donny", sixty-three, has been in a nursing home for one month because of cardiac disease. His doctor made a hospice referral as Donny's symptoms are becoming worse. His main symptoms are weakness, shortness of breath and nausea. Donny's friend, "Andy" was sitting at the bedside when the hospice nurse and I walked into his room.

Donny said that he has known Andy for over forty years; quickly adding, "He is my family". Donny knew why his doctor made a referral because of that recent decline. Donny said that he knows all about hospice support as his father and brother were both on the program.

Donny has a strong Christian faith with a belief in God and the afterlife. Donny has no fears or concerns about his terminal status and poor prognosis. He has had visions of his brother which gives him comfort. Donny gets tremendous support from his spiritual beliefs and his wonderful family support.

Donny spoke honestly about his past life; his addictions; his depression; his suicide attempts. Donny thought his suicide attempts were unsuccessful as it wasn't his time to go. He added that he won't ever try it again because of the experience of meeting up with his deceased brother two years ago. It was at that time that his brother told Donny that it was not his time to go.

Even though Donny's past was challenging; his heart and love shine through loud and clear. That truly is what clearly defines him. By him being able to give so much love throughout his life; in between those other rough times; is now paying off for him. He is surrounded by tremendous love that he so naturally gives to others. His family and friend being by his side says a lot about them, but then it also says a lot about Donny. I feel honored to have met him today. I wish him a loving, gentle journey.


HIS HEART　

He greets us with a wide smile,
although he's had a rough life.
Some by poor choices;
          many others not.

Somehow it can be easy
to make judgments knowing his past.
Drug abuse, alcohol addiction
          and mental illness too.

He was honest and direct
about all that he has done.
His suicide attempts, his homelessness.
He held nothing back. 

He knows all about hospice
as his family has used that support.
He has no fears; no concerns.
His Christian beliefs give him hope.

His two children are by his side.
He best friend of forty years is too.
He's made a lot of loving connections.
You know he's done a lot that's right.

His appearance is rough and tough,
although is surrounded by a coating of love.
I immediately saw his tender heart,
the truth about who he really is.

He's made many mistakes,
but truly, who of us have not.
His love is embracing; his heart is huge.
And that is what clearly describes him
          most of all.