FOR HER

'John", seventy years old, was diagnosed with Lung Cancer seven months ago. He tried chemotherapy to no avail. His doctor recently offered another treatment, but John had had enough and declined all further options.

John is married to his wife, "Leslie". I spoke with Leslie on the telephone to introduce her to the Social Work role as part of the team. I immediately heard the love in her voice that she had for John. It was so sweet and beautiful at the same time. John's disease has left him bedridden for most of the day. He will only get up to use the bathroom. He gets short of breath so easily with any endurance.

She shared stories about their life; their family and their friends. John still has hopes that he will get better, although has accepted hospice into his home with kindness. Whereby Linda shared how much she loved him so unconditionally; John showed Linda the same love. He came onto hospice totally just for her. It was so beautiful hearing about their marriage; their love. No matter what happens, they will all be okay because of the deep love they both have for each other. Truly one of life's special gifts.


FOR HER　

They have been married forty years.
It was true love right from the start.
Raising children while running the household.
So appreciating now as it's just the two of them.

He became quite ill seven months ago.
His disease has rapidly spread.
He is now bedridden; no longer gets up;
keeping her home taking great care of him.

She will do anything for him;
no matter what needs may arise.
She never complains as wants to help.
Her unconditional love so plentiful.

She says, "He is my soul mate; my rock.
I love him with all of my being."
She accepts his disease; his limitations
caring for him with her tender heart.

They were recently informed about hospice.
His doctor thought the time was right.
He still had hopes of getting better.
          "I'm going to be just fine."

He told her he didn't want hospice,
"This is not the right time for me."
But in the end, when he heard her words;
"I want hospice. Do it for me."
He easily said "Yes.
          He did it lovingly just for her.