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.
