WHAT THEY NEED

"Katherine", eighty years old, was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. She had been living her life fairly well until one week ago. It happened suddenly as she became so weak and had difficulty walking without support. She shared that she spends most of her days now in bed as it is where she is most comfortable.

Katherine was widowed two years ago. Her husband suffered from Alzheimer's Disease for many years. Katherine easily spoke about her husband and knows that he is doing well as she has a strong Christian belief about God and the afterlife. Nine months ago, Katherine moved into a new home with a dear friend. The two of them decorated it so beautifully. Katherine shed a few quiet tears during out visit while stating, "I thought I would have more time to enjoy my new home".

Katherine's two daughters live nearby. The two girls; "Jennie" and "Shelly", spoke about their two cousins and an uncle who all had passed away within the past six months. Katherine and her daughters easily verbalized the reality of those losses. Their humor poked through now and then as it helped take the edge off the sadness.

This is an amazing family as they have so learned through hard times that the best gift of all is love. One could feel so strongly the powerful unconditional love that was present. This family is a pure example of naturally being able to give each other that best gift of all.



WHAT THEY NEED　

What they deeply need
is to take care of their mother.
It gives them comfort;
          it soothes their souls.

The family has had so many losses.
More than most of us could ever bear.
All of them face reality head on;
leaning on each other for loving support.

Her two daughters are right by her side
with such strong desires to just be there.
One daughter was widowed only two years ago;
while the other's husband is terminal too.

"How do you both cope with so many losses?
It has to be so overwhelming and intense."
With a soft and loveable smile she shared,
"We rotate in our weak moments."

What is necessary is so what they have.
Loving and supportive family members
who care so deeply for their mother.
They all are truly receiving exactly what they need.

Mom has no fears about dying.
Her strong Christian faith helps her cope.
"I know it will be my time when Jesus calls.
          I will then be ready to go."

She has taught her children about loss.
She has taught her children about love.
Knowing that they will be okay after she is gone
is truly the number one thing that she now
          so deeply needs.