ONE NEVER KNOWS

I have walked through many doors during my 36-year career as a Medical Social Worker.  I meet so many who are challenged by an illness.  Each of us is an individual and all cope in their own unique way.   Most of the folks I meet during my workday are wonderful, loving and caring souls.  But then we all cope so individually.  That is what makes each of us unique.    

I have always taken a deep breath prior to going through any door while talking to my gang upstairs, “Give me the tools to help”.  Most always, they come through with much support and guidance.  Their gift to me is so beautiful.

  

ONE NEVER KNOWS 

 

I have been a Medical Social Worker 

for almost thirty-six years. 

I have walked through many hospital,  

facilities and home front doors. 

 

All patients are suffering from challenges; 

but due to family dynamics, supports, 

coping skills, strengths and frailties; 

one never knows walking through that door. 

 

She called our hospice to ask for a visit. 

Her friend just recently died on our program. 

“I would like more information about hospice 

                         and end of life needs.” 

 

As we arrived, she walked us into her family room. 

She had many cups and saucers on the counter; 

along with homemade loaf cakes and muffins. 

Next; thirteen people walked into the family room. 

 

“These are my friends from our exercise class. 

I asked you here to teach us about hospice; 

to explain about end-of-life needs such as 

a POLST and Durable Power of Attorney.” 

 

That was the last thing I expected to hear, 

but was happy to present an in-service to them all. 

The gift of knowledge is an amazing support, 

but I thought she was ill and needing hospice soon. 

 

Goes to show, when walking through a front door, 

                         “One never knows.” 

 

  

 

SOLITUDE

I did two admissions today.  It was interesting to witness many similarities between the two of them.  Both chose; either by life circumstances or selection, to live their life with much of it alone.   By human nature, we are social beings.  Most of us do love being surrounded by many who love us and who care.  But then, these two men today did remind me that it is the quality of life and not the numbers.   

 

Both men had metastatic cancer and were in a lot of pain.  Both were taking pain killers which made it hard for them to stay focused on the conversation.  Each had no family around; but did have one close friend who was devoted to them.  Who is anyone to say, “They need more”.   

 

We all search for what we need.  In addition, we all have to work with what we have; being it just one person or a very large group of family and friends.  I vote for the latter, but if I had to live with only one support person, I would feel so gracious.  I learned a lot today. 

SOLITUDE 

 

When we think about human nature, 

we often envision being together; 

intermixing with others; 

                         never just being alone. 

 

He was diagnosed with cancer 

just a little over three months ago. 

Chemotherapy is no longer working 

as it has already spread to his bone. 

 

Due to his “Poly Substance Abuse”, 

he has a long history of burning bridges. 

He has no family coming forward to help. 

Fortunately, his ex-girlfriend is here 

                         with her kind heart. 

 

This second patient, too, has been mostly alone. 

He was a long-haul trucker by trade. 

He also suffers from cancer that has spread. 

No family, but a friend, is staying by his side. 

 

Both must have chosen to be this alone 

or life experiences led them this way. 

Most folks I know need company; need support, 

but then, both do have one strong person 

                      forever by their side. 

 

It is definitely quality; not quantity  

that gives the best support. 

Sitting quietly by another’s side is profound. 

Your heart is strongly saying; “I so deeply care”. 

 

It is not solitude or loneliness at all; 

but what all of us so deeply desire 

is pure unconditional love. 

                         By far, the best blessing of all.