A NICE GUY

 

I first met “Kevin” eighteen months ago.  Kevin is fifty-two years old and suffered from a rare neurological disease.  He lived in a small apartment a few blocks away from where his parents resided.  His parents are so loving and supportive to Kevin.  They wanted him to be able to be as independent as he safely could.  Mom and dad checked in on him daily and assisted him with any needs that did arise. 

Initially, I first met Kevin’s parents in their home to educate them about hospice and the support it gives.  Mom shared that she did not think her son would live more than a few months.  Here it is eighteen months later and he is still alive.  He has surprised us all. 

A few days after meeting up with Mom and Dad, the hospice nurse and I met Kevin in his apartment.  Mom and dad were also there to support their son.  Kevin smiles so easily.  He would try to talk, but he struggled so with trying to communicate.  He mumbled and his words were garbled.  His body language, although, was so beautiful and loving.  The hospice nurse was sneezing a bit because of allergies.  Kevin went into the kitchen and brought out a roll of paper towels and gave it to her.  It was so sweet.  

During the course of my work, I will, at times, share that the hospice patient’s disease is such a small, tiny piece of who they are.  They are so much more than their disease.  They are the funny thing they did on vacation, or the sweet thing they did on your birthday etc.  We all are our heart and our soul; not our disease.  God bless you Kevin.  You have given so much to others during your life.  Fly high in love and joy.  You so deserve that and so much more.

A NICE GUY

 

I first met him 18 months ago.

His mom and dad lived nearby,

but he was able to live in his apartment alone

with a little help from them each day.

 

He was diagnosed fifteen years ago

with a rare neurological disease.

They say one often is diagnosed

between the ages of 36 and 38.

       He was 37.

 

He can no longer speak

and is a bit wobbly on his feet;

but his smile comes so naturally.

He so easily is able to please.

 

One week ago, all that has changed.

He collapsed at home and was rushed to the ER.

They know his days are now few.

The optimal plan is nursing home placement.

 

The hospital has been trying to locate a facility.

Be it the virus; be it his young age,

they are struggling with finding one.

They keep hearing from each facility, “No beds”.

 

Amazingly, they found an available bed today.

He will be transported there tomorrow.

It is five hundred miles south of here.

His parents say they are relieved

that he now can get the proper care.

 

Somehow it seems he has been shortchanged.

He’s had a rough fifteen years,

but his positive attitude always shined through

letting all of us know, he is so much more than his disease.

He definitely is, and always will be remembered as,

             A nice guy.