A SURVIVOR

The hospice nurse and I went out to admit “Art” to our hospice program.  He has been living in a nursing home for six months; after suffering a stroke.  The stroke has left him paralyzed.  Six months prior, both of his legs were amputated above the knee.  When we walked into his room, his eyes quietly tracked our entrance. Being non-verbal, I so wondered if he knew who we were and why we were there.  I hope he felt our caring hearts. 

His primary contact is his nephew, “Rob”.  Rob lives two hours away and seldom visits as told me, “I have car trouble.” Rob so wanted to support his uncle and follow his wishes, but he shared with me that his uncle never spoke about his children or any other family.  Rob was struggling a bit as wanted strongly to do what his uncle would want. 

Seeing Art lying so still and quiet in his hospital room, he looked so isolated and alone.  He never shifted positions as likely could not do so alone.  There was no television or radio nearby.  Art couldn’t read a book or even play games on a I-pad.  

It brought up so many questions for me.  What is it all about?  Why does he need to go through such a terrific experience.  There are no answers that did arise.  I hope our small gifts of caring and our heart helped him; even if it was just for a little bit.

A SURVIVOR

 

He has traveled a rocky road;

making unhealthy choices along the way.

Often times, one does good for a while,

but then; reality can hit terribly hard.

 

His health took a horrific downturn.

One year ago, he underwent bilateral

above-the-knee amputations

secondary to uncontrolled diabetes.

 

Six months ago, he suffered a stroke

leaving him paralyzed on his right side.

He now has a catheter and a feeding tube.

Powerful adversaries he cannot fight.

 

He just lies still in his hospital bed;

the middle spot in a room of three.

How does he cope with all of this?

I so wanted to ask him but,

he is non-verbal; unable to talk.

 

His eyes quietly tracked us

as we walked into his room.

Did he know why we were there?

Did he understand our support?

 

His days must be long

as he can only quietly lie there.

Why is this happening to him?

What is it all about?

 

There likely aren’t any answers,

but so hoped he felt we cared.

We all have our own personal journeys,

but, it appears, that he is unfortunately;  

                              just existing.