PARALLEL UNIVERSE

This morning, the hospice nurse and I went out to do a hospice admission with “Edward”.  One week ago, Edward was totally independent and living his life to the fullest.  It was then that all changed where he became  weak and unable to function.  He spent a few days in the hospital learning that it was his Lung Cancer’s progression. 

After meeting Edward and his family, I went back to the office to document my admission.  It was so coincidental, as the moment I finished my paperwork, I received a text that there was another admission in one hour. 

It was during that second admission, that I started to see the similarities between these two amazing men.  The best part of all was their humor.  Both had me laughing from their dry wit.  I so admire and respect both of them for their truth and their insight.

PARALLEL UNIVERSE

 

I met these two special men today

while admitting both to hospice.

They were each distinct and individual

while living in a parallel universe.

 

Residing less than two miles apart from each other;

one was ninety-five; the other ninety-eight.

Both were diagnosed, several months ago,

with lung cancer that has spread to their brain.

 

The both tried chemo with gruesome side-affects.

Each agreed to no more treatment as one said,

“It is what it is.  I’ve had a good life;”

while the other, “I am ready to go”.

 

They each have suffered multiple losses in their life.

Both are widowed and married a second time.

One has lost both of his children;

                     while the other has lost one.

 

One has a strong Baptist faith, stating

“I have accepted Christ in my life”.

The other has done research and is spiritually guided.

“Something will happen, I have read about it.”

 

Both strongly appreciate their family and friends,

using humor that so easily helps them cope.

I believe each will know when it is time to let go,

but I wouldn’t be surprised if it was

                         just a few days apart.