ON THE RADIO

Dr. G, has a PhD in Psychology. She hosts a weekly show each Wednesday at noon on our local radio station. She holds many conferences that my hospice offers so I do see her around the office occasionally, but never have been officially introduced.

Two weeks ago, our hospice had a Taco and Ice Cream truck come to our parking lot. It was to thank all of the staff for their hard work. There were folding chairs set out on the lawn and Dr. G and I happened to sit next to each other. She asked me what did I do at the hospice which led the two of us to talk about hospice. I spoke about the tremendous spirituality that is such a wonderful part of hospice work. I also shared my poetry.

I was so shocked when she asked me to be on her show. I had many moments of being nervous, but the moment I walked into the studio, calmness overtook me. It was a lot of fun to be able to talk about a subject that is so dear to my heart. Each day I so thank my patients and families for what they give back to all of us working at hospice.


ON THE RADIO　

She said she had something to ask me.
I had no idea what to expect.
"Would you like to be on my radio show
to talk about hospice and spirituality?"

Each Wednesday at noontime,
she hosts a show called "Heart to Heart;"
talking weekly with a wide variety of folks,
on our one local radio station.

I said "Yes", but the nerves hit me hard.
"Will I know what to say on a live program?
What if I totally mess things up?"
But then some relief as I do know hospice and spirituality.

Nerves were with me as I walked in today;
but calmness overcame as I sat down by the mike.
Hospice embraces my soul; it gives me peace.
The words flowed so naturally; I wanted to teach.

I spoke about my hospice patient's and their families;
their struggles and their grief.
I also spoke about amazing strengths; the love that regularly flows.
Death is a natural part of life; although we all will do it only once.

I read a few of my poems.
I shared some amazing stories.
If she ever asks me a second time,
I will happily say "Yes"
to again be on the radio.
 

TOGETHER

"Joyce" and "Ricky" have been married seventy years. Ricky is only a few months older than Joyce as both turned ninety-five this year. The couple have two children who are very devoted to their parents and help out a lot. For years the couple ran a small family business spending their days with each other at work.

Both have been pretty healthy, although in the past few years have been needing more help due to aging limitations. They hired some caregivers to help them out for a few hours each day which worked out well for them.

This past week, both Joyce and Ricky have had health crises which left them both hospitalized. Joyce was transported home this afternoon by ambulance. It was then that we met with their daughter, ""Leah" to sign up Joyce to hospice. During the visit, Leah informed us that her father will be discharged home from the same hospital tomorrow. The hospital will be making a hospice referral for him as well.

It was so amazing how Joyce and Ricky's lives were in such unison. Obviously they were a perfect match for each other. It sounds like they will be starting the next segment of their spiritual lives together as well. May the next journey be as beautiful as this one has been for both of them.

ADDENDUM: Joyce died the next morning after her hospice admission. Ricky died four days later. They are now truly, forevermore, together.


TOGETHER　

They have known each other for forever;
just celebrating seventy years of marriage.
He turned ninety-five a few months before her.
It's been just the two of them; always together.

She was just discharged from the hospital today;
likely he will be discharged home tomorrow.
They both got sick at the same time;
now together needing so much more help.

She was so sleepy and a bit confused,
but it was clear she knew she was home.
She produced a beautiful, sincere smile
as the paramedics wheeled her in
          through the front door.

We admitted her to hospice due to her recent decline.
She has not eaten at all this week; not much water either.
She likely has no more than a few days.
It is so wonderful that she made it back home.

Once he arrives home tomorrow, we will return.
It will now be her husband that we admit to our program.
They have always done everything as one;
now not surprisingly; they will let go
          Together.