HIS QUALITY OF LIFE

The hospice nurse and I went out to admit, “Bernie”, to our hospice program.  Bernie, who is ninety-seven, has declined slowly this past month.  His is unsteady on his gait and has fallen multiple times.  With each fall, the family takes him to the Emergency Room to be examined.  Fortunately, Bernie, has not broken any bones, but does have a few bruises from those falls. 

Bernie had been walking with a walker, but since his most recent fall two days ago, he is now using a wheelchair.  Bernie has a large, extended family, who most live nearby.  Two of his children live in the neighborhood along with his eldest granddaughter, “Monica”.  Bernie has a very supportive and involved family.  In addition, he has 24-hour care seven days a week. 

Bernie’s gait is unsteady and he continues to be a high risk for falls.  Bernie is eating mostly only breakfast, but will have cold cereal at dinner time.  He has lost weight in the past several months.  Bernie is sleeping so much more as Monica shared, “He sleeps about eight to ten hours at night; in addition to with many naps during the day”.  

I was so inspired by Bernie as he spoke so beautifully about his blessings in life.  He focused solely on the positives and embraced that amazing support.  He is an inspiration. 

HIS QUALITY OF LIFE

 

“I’ve had a wonderful life.

My family is so remarkable

while my work was so gratifying.

There’s not much left I need

                    or honestly have to do.”

 

He’s lived a long fulfilling life;

always able to manage most all of his needs.

Lately all has noticeably changed.

He’s weaker, falling, sleeping more.

 

He is highly educated and worked with primates;

studying animal behavior at the university nearby.

He served in the Marines during World War II.

He was in combat, but stated,

“I was taught what I needed to learn”.

 

They fear his road may now be headed down;

so, they called hospice in for the extra support.

He was weak and spoke so slowly, but then;

he’ll be ninety-eight in a few months.

 

He spoke so highly and thankful of his family.

He appreciates their support; their kindness; their love.

He has, always and forever, fully embraced his life;

focusing largely on the positives that surround him.

 

When asked about his spiritual beliefs, he clearly said,

“I do not believe there is an afterlife.

Do not hold onto what may likely not be.

Grab your quality of life each day”.

 

“Life is all about living.

Enjoy the riches of life.

It will always, and forever,

                    be there.”