HE

Our agency, along with hospice support, also has Palliative Care support.  I went out to admit “Julie” to the Palliative Care program.  Julie suffers from uterine cancer.  She is undergoing treatment and doing well. 

Prior to meeting up with Julie, I read the medical records that accompanied the referral.  It said that she was a “he”.  I had spoken with Julie’s mother a week prior regarding the support that is available from our program.  During my career as a social worker, I always have a quiet talk to my “buddies above” to help me find the right words to support the patient and families.  My goal is always to be helpful as needed. 

I was so impressed upon meeting him. He told his truth in such a kind way.  While we were talking, he had a small notebook which he drew animals and faces of people.  He was so talented.  I expressed my appreciation to his gift as an artist.  

As I was about to leave, I told him how I was honored to have met him.  It was then he said, while smiling, “You are f***ing great!”  We both then laughed together.  A perfect ending to an amazing visit. 

HE 

 

 

They named her Jennifer Lynn 

upon her birth thirty-seven years ago. 

In her early twenties, major changes occurred. 

It was then when they all heard, Schizophrenia. 

 

She became paranoid; losing trust in others. 

She hallucinated; seeing things that were not there. 

She strongly focused on the meanings; 

wanting answers; valid reasons for it all. 

 

“No longer address me as Jennifer. 

My name is Anorak; I am a wolf. 

I am now a He; a Him; a Male. 

I am pansexual.  I deal with anybody”. 

 

He showed me his wedding ring; 

a rare gemstone called the Larimar; 

only found in the Caribbean. 

                    “I am married to myself”. 

 

Prior to meeting him, I feared 

I would slip up and accidently say she, 

but, he so presents as a male 

with a mustache and a full beard. 

 

He so impressed me as he told his truth. 

He had self-convincing answers as to why. 

His focus was on doing the right things; 

never wanting to hurt anyone. 

 

He showed me the benefits 

when one naturally accepts others; 

as that is the best way 

                    to all get along. 

 

I feel so honored. 

I feel so blessed 

                    to have met  

                                        Him.