“Nelson” was admitted to hospice today. He suffers from end-stage-kidney disease. He went on dialysis ten months ago. Throughout it all, he hated the side effects of constant weakness and pain. He is very realistic about life and so appreciates his support network of family and friends. Having a quality of life is his most cherished possession. He is now making challenging decisions to ensure he continues to have that quality. I so admire and respect him for living his life his way.
QUALITY OF LIFE
He made some poor choices as a teenager.
A few have impacted how things are today.
His kidneys have failed; he’s been on dialysis.
He just turned thirty-five six weeks ago.
When asked about any fears or concerns;
he shared, “Quality of life is so important to me.
I have no comfort or relief at all any more
as side effects from dialysis take it all away.”
His most prized possessions are the basics in life;
his family; his friends; his faith.
He stopped dialysis five days ago
knowing he is looking now at only a few weeks.
Those few good weeks equal quality of life to him
as opposed to years living with weakness and pain.
He’s come to our hospice shelter for end-of-life care;
not wanting to die in a loved one’s home.
His family and friends all know he cares for them
as he expresses his love and happiness so easily.
They also know he is now at peace with letting go
while giving himself his most cherished gift of all;
“Quality of life.”
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