HUMOR

I first met, fifty-nine-year-old “Jenni”, six months ago when she was admitted to our hospice program.  Jenni was diagnosed with a brain tumor one year ago.  She went through chemotherapy and radiation to no avail.  Jenni has tremendous support from her family.  In addition, she has a strong Christian faith which helps her cope.  

Jenni lives with her husband, “Will”.  He is so attentive to Jenni’s needs.  He shared, “I so wish I could do more for her”.  I replied, “You are giving Jenni the best gift of all; unconditional love.”  Jenni and Will are both very realistic regarding Jenni’s slow decline and poor prognosis.  Will shared, “Every day we are together, is so special”.  

Seeing Jenni today was surprising as she was so much weaker and thinner than when I first met her six months ago.  But, wonderfully, what hasn’t changed, is her positive attitude and appreciation of life.  In addition, Jenni so embraces her family’s support.   What I also so love about Jenni is her wonderful sense of humor.  Using humor at any time is great, but when it is used during difficult times, it definitely takes the edge off.

 Each one of us has an individual coping mechanism and whatever we need to say or do to cope, is truly the road to take.  I wish Jenni the best.

HUMOR 

 

She was diagnosed just one year ago.

The Cat Scan showed a large brain tumor.

They advised chemotherapy and radiation.

Several permanent side effects did suddenly arise.

 

I initially met her six months ago,

when she first admitted to our program.

She has been slowly declining; becoming weaker.

                    Looking oh way too thin.

 

Two weeks ago, she went to the ER.

“It must be kidney stones”; but it was not.

Two cancerous tumors have spread to other organs.

                    There is nothing more to be done.

 

She has no concerns or fears at all,

as her family and strong faith help her cope.

When asked about her medications, she replied,

                    “I am a walking pharmacy”.

 

She is having trouble swallowing,

eating only applesauce or yogurt.

She has lost fifteen pounds this past month.

“I am one tumor away from my goal weight”.

 

In troubled times, humor is our savior.

It takes the edge off the seriousness around.

She will continue with her wit; her jokes;

as it is absolutely

                    the best medicine of all.