TO ACCEPT

"Marjorie", sixty-eight, was diagnosed with lung cancer two months ago. Marjorie tried chemotherapy for only a few sessions, but it left her so weak and sick. It was then that Marjorie knew she wanted quality of life and not quantity.

Marjorie so welcomed the hospice nurse and myself into her home. She was so appreciative that we were there. I informed her all about hospice's philosophy and supports along with adding that we do not come in and take over. I let Marjorie know she was in charge on how she wanted to do things. It helps hospice so much when patients and families are able to keep us in their loop by letting us know how they want things to flow.

I was so amazed by Marjorie's beautiful, positive attitude about life. She grew up in a very supportive and loving family which I know helped her see life the way she celebrates her life. Marjorie is so positive about it all. She shared some beautiful and funny family stories; while laughing so easily.

Marjorie will handle her cancer the way she has handled other things in her life. She will look realistically at what is going on with such a positive twist. That is one thing that will truly help her accept and cope with whatever comes her way.


TO ACCEPT

She has a positive outlook on things.
She's been that way her entire life.
Whether the good or the bad come along,
she has learned to accept what is.

She has a recent diagnosis of cancer.
Somehow she knew before she was told.
She's been weaker; more short of breath.
Tasks have been slowly getting a bit harder.

She wants to be able to stay in her own home,
but knows that may not be a workable plan.
All family live out of state many miles away,
with only a few close friends around.

Her eldest son died six months ago in a car crash.
"Oh my gosh! What helps you cope?"
"It was a swift and major car crash. He didn't know he would die.
That alone helps me to accept it. It gives me some peace."

There are always positives in every tough situation,
but often they can be so difficult to see.
She naturally will view all moments in an optimistic way.
It helps her manage and cope with the not so good.

She is adjusting to her status and terminal prognosis.
Slowly losing her independence is not easy for her.
But she so sincerely summed it all up by amazingly sharing,
         "It will be what it will be.
                  I am learning to accept my destiny".