HEART

Hospice’s bereavement department follow up with patient’s families for thirteen months after the death.  The Social Worker case manager will call the family one or two days after the death, to check in with the family to see how they are doing.  I will make those condolence calls as well.   

“Barry”, had only been on hospice for one day.  I called his wife, “Jenny” to see how she was doing.  What she told me was so beautiful; it gave me goosebumps.  I hear stories like this often.  I personally have experienced it as well.  It gives me hope that, in the end, we all are going to be just fine.  Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Jenny.

HEART 

 

His disease presented with such a rapid decline

as his shortness of breath caught them all by surprise.

He came onto our hospice program Monday morning;

by Tuesday afternoon, he took his final breath.

 

I called her to offer condolences and support;

wanting to know how she was coping.

She answered, “l am doing okay.

It gives me relief knowing that he is no longer suffering.”

 

“I am surrounded by tremendous support.

My friends are visiting, calling and texting me.

That’s what gives me comfort and also tears.

I could never handle this being alone.”

 

‘I was driving home from a doctor’s appointment today

when I looked up toward the sky.

There, surrounded by cumulus clouds,

was a beautiful, celestial, white heart”.

 

“I know it was him wanting me and the family to know

that he is okay and doing well on the other side.

I know we will all see him again one day,

but, for now, I know that I can always embrace

                    his beautiful heart.”