FROM HIS HEART

The hospice nurse admitted “Chris” to our hospice program yesterday.   Each hospice patient is assigned to a nurse and a Social Worker.   I gave the patient’s son, “Jon”, a call today to educate him about hospice support and philosophy.  In addition, I explained the role and support of a social worker.  

I immediately felt the love of his heart with his softness and appreciative words.   He told his truth in a very tender way.  He just recently connected with his father due to his illness. 

In the end, I told him that he is giving his father the best gift of all; unconditional love.  God bless you Jon.  

FROM HIS HEART 

 

He suffered a major stroke 

leaving him paralyzed on his left side. 

He now resides in a facility 

due to his recent decline and weakness. 

 

I spoke with his son today 

educating him all about hospice support. 

He so appreciated the information, 

thanking me for giving him a call. 

 

He could not give me much information 

when I asked about his father’s life. 

 “He left us all twenty-five years ago. 

He just walked away and never came back.” 

 

I asked him about what helps him cope. 

He so tenderly said, “My awesome wife”. 

Then added; “He is a grumpy man! 

You must think I am awful to say that.” 

 

I then softly replied, “You talk about your awesome wife. 

Well, you are tremendously awesome as well. 

Your dad abandoned all of you years ago 

and you, so recently, with your heart, are here for him”. 

 

“You naturally learned about love; about humanity; 

from someone very special in your life. 

You tell your truth that helps you cope; 

which so beautifully comes 

                              From your heart!” 

 

 

FIRST IMPRESSION

I went alone today to do a Palliative Care admission.   The patient, “Stan”, is only forty-seven.  He suffers from kidney failure and is on dialysis.  He also suffers from nerve damage that causes him horrific pain.  My first impression upon seeing him was so not who he is.    He is a perfect example teaching us that love, respect, and honor come from inside and not from one’s initial appearance.  Thank you for reminding me, Stan. 

FIRST IMPRESSION 

 

 

I only knew a little bit about him. 

The medical records did not show much. 

He has kidney failure and is on dialysis; 

along with radiating nerve pain. 

 

I heard, “Come on in", when I knocked on his door. 

He was standing there; oh, so tall; so big; so tattooed.   

The only clothes he was wearing were shorts; 

                         and, he wore them a bit too low. 

 

My first thought was, "Please guide me to help him”, 

as I expected a brusque, unyielding personality. 

For such a young man, he has multiple diagnoses; 

and anger often is a normal grief response. 

 

Fortunately, looks can often be deceiving; 

as it so definitely was this morning. 

He warmly welcomed me into his home; 

even though he forgot about the appointment. 

 

He was a kind, gracious, and gentle soul. 

He was realistic about his health,  

but also, so very appreciative about his supports; 

                         his family; his friends; his two cats. 

 

He was a beautiful reminder about appearances. 

Our outside image is just decoration. 

Who we all truly are, is what is deep inside. 

It is our heart; 

                        our soul; 

                                        our spirit.