SO SIMILAR

I met “Monica” on a Wednesday.  The next day, Thursday, I then met “Jennie”.  There were so many similarities between these two women.  Both had the same diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer that had metastasized.  Monica was diagnosed only thirteen weeks ago; while for Jennie it has been approximately two years.  Both women underwent chemotherapy treatment.  For Monica, the chemotherapy did not work at all as her cancer continued to grow.  For Jennie, her treatment worked until recently. 

Both women chose to stop chemotherapy.  Both chose to allow their cancer to run its natural course at home surrounded by their family and loved ones.  They both totally accepted their fate without fears as their spiritual beliefs help them cope and gave them courage.   What I saw and appreciated so was the strength of these two women.  They have also given me hope about life and afterlife.  Bless them for their beliefs and pure acceptance.

SO SIMILAR 

 

I met her yesterday for the first time.

She’s been in a rapid one-month decline.

It is so sad as she was diagnosed with cancer

               a mere thirteen weeks ago.

 

She’s been hospitalized several times

as the chemotherapy did not work.

“I want to be discharged today

in order to die in comfort at home.”

 

I met her this morning to also admit to hospice.

She too, has the same diagnosis of cancer.

Her chemotherapy, as well, is no longer effective.

“I’ve had a good life.  I have no regrets”.

 

Both have clearly stated their wishes;

to be at home, surrounded by loved ones.

To be able to die their way; in comfort and in peace.

                    Their similarities amaze me.

 

They are only seven years apart in age.

Way too young to face these challenges.

One is so divinely spiritual;

while the other a devout Catholic.

 

Both have a positive outlook on life

as well as an accepting viewpoint on death.

Both so lovingly embrace their family;

knowing that is the best gift of all.

 

They both embraced my heart so deeply.

Their love; their grace; their beliefs.

Such beautiful moments to experience.

No words can ever grasp this significance.

 

But then astonishingly,

                    So similar.