HER LAST WISH

 On our hospice web site, it gives our hospice office phone number for readers to call with any questions or needs.  “Janice” called with questions about how to arrange to have her ninety-four-year-old mother admitted to hospice.  Mom lives in another state.  She had been healthy and living her life independently until a few weeks ago when she suffered a major stroke. 

Mom is now in a Skilled Nursing Facility and totally dependent with all of her needs.  Janice was struggling a bit as she lives so far away from her mother.  Fortunately, Janice’s sister lives near Mom.  It was beautiful as the two daughters were so focused on meeting Mom’s needs of wanting comfort care. 

I gave Janice advice and direction on how to proceed with a hospice admission.  It was then when Janice told me about Mom’s final wish.  It is always hard to say goodbye, but Mom’s daughters both know that there is no possibility of recovery from the stroke.  

I wish Janice and her Mom the best.  I know the two daughters will continue to focus on Mom’s wishes and will support her the best way they can.  I wish all of them well.

HER LAST WISH

 

At the end of our lives,

many of us have one final wish;

one final longing we want to realize

before our life is over.

 

I will hear a variety of desires.

Waiting for the birth of a grandchild;

a special anniversary date;

making that ninetieth birthday.

 

Mom just turned ninety-four.

She was doing great until recently

when she suffered a major stroke.

She is now dependent with all of her needs.

 

She has always told her family;

“I would never want to live this way.

If it happens, please let me go

in peace and in comfort.”

 

She recently told her daughter,

“I have accomplished all that I’ve desired.

My final wish was to live long enough

to vote Trump out of office.”

 

“I have done that, and now

all of my work is almost done.

The only thing left for me to do

is to softly and lovingly,

                  just say Goodbye.”