STRAIGHT FACED

“John” turned ninety-two four months ago.  John was widowed and lived alone in a small house with his dog, “Molly”.   He had two daughters, “Kelly” and “Laura”.  Both daughters lived nearby and helped their dad as much as he would let them.  John was very independent and strongly wanted to do things his way.  

He had been very strong and independent most all of his life until this past year.  A few health issues arose, but he was determined to continue to do his life his way while living alone with Molly.  When I asked John and his daughters about long term planning, they had no answer.  There may come a time when John can no longer live alone.  John had always been independent that likely it was hard for his daughters to even think it could be any other way. 

John had the straightest face during the entire visit; whether serious or using his humor.  His doctor made a referral to hospice as well as to our Palliative Care Program.  John met the criteria for Palliative Care as he had minimal lung disease and swelling in his legs that needed some treatment.  John so strongly wanted hospice as there is much more care available as hospice patients so need it. 

John would be serious and then suddenly shift gears making all of us laugh.  His face remained the same no matter what we were discussing.  He was so practical and knew exactly what he wanted.  

When I asked John about his spiritual beliefs, he said he had no beliefs of any afterlife.  That is when he left us with his great parting words.  I wish him the best.

STRAIGHT FACED 

 

Living past ninety years of age,

he’s been healthy most of his life.

This past year though,

a few medical issues have arisen. 

 

He no longer can ambulate

due to swelling in his legs;

but is determined and strong

using his wheelchair to easily get around.

 

He wanted to be admitted to hospice,

but he was too healthy to qualify.

He straight-faced strongly asked,

“Why can’t I just get that help?”

 

He was direct and practical;

intensely letting us know what he wanted.

But then, he also had a great sense of humor

that would make all of us laugh.

 

Being serious or comical,

his temperament always remained the same.

His straight face expressed his truth,

be it funny or true to his basic wishes.

 

Straight faced at the end of our visit,

he left us with a few words

leaving all of us laughing.

No one straight faced at all;

 

“You are dead a long time.

               When you die, you are D-E-D.”