SHOCKED

As part of our hospice support, upon a patient’s death, the Social Worker will call the family a day or so later to offer condolences and support.  I was asked to help out and made three condolence calls today.  With each patient, I go back and look at the Social Work admitting note that documents what family member to call.  

One of the calls I made was to a family member that I had met over a year ago as I did the hospice admission.  I vaguely remember this family.  I do so many admissions, it is hard to remember them all.  

What I heard from this family member totally shocked me.  Life, at times, feels like it can be so unfair.   Some folks seem to get more than their fair share.  Loss is so hard for all of us, but when things hit so close to each other, I cannot even imagine the pain. 

This is an amazing family and I have no doubt they will move on graciously.  The daughter was very interested in seeing one of our bereavement counselors as we follow up for 13 months as needed.  I am amazed at how beautifully they are handling their losses as their strong faith does give them comfort; which isn’t a shock, but something of beauty.

SHOCKED

 

It is so easy to think

that you have heard it all,

but then again, with just a little surprise,

you normally will hear something new.

 

I met them over a year ago;

a mother and her three kids.

Mom was needing more and more help,

so her daughter, Shawna, moved in.

 

Mom died peacefully four days ago

so, this morning I picked up the phone

to call Shawna and her family;

to offer condolences and give support.

 

When someone answered I asked for Shawna.

It was then when she told me the news.

“This is Susan, her sister.

Shawna died suddenly eight days ago.”

 

I didn’t know what to say; I was so shocked.

I could not find any appropriate words

so I simply just said,

“I am so sorry.  This has to be so rough”.

 

She then beautifully replied,

“Shawna came down to take Mama home.

We know they are both at peace.

                    That gives all of us comfort”.

 

I am amazed at how they are coping

as her words melted my heart.

The shock did stay with me for a while,

but I am all the more so happy

                    they are finding their peace.