Despair.
Asphyxiated by the device
meant to grant you life
you pleaded to be released.
Lines running
through your veins
fighting to give you strength-
they only imprisoned you.
You-
always present
aware of the
commotion about you.
Bustling nurses
weeping children
through it all
your eyes were
locked onto mine.
“Help me let go” was your plea.
You grabbed my hand
shook your head
as if you knew this act
had been playing
long enough.
As if someone had
interrupted your journey
toward the place
you were meant to go.
So we released you.
Withdrew your tube
diminished your drips.
Severed the chains that bound you.
We comforted you.
You turned
toward your children.
Through a surge of strength
you assured them
it would be okay-
that through your going on
they would go on.
Then you turned back to me.
Though undeserving
of your last moments
you entrusted them to me.
You held my hand
held my gaze.
“Thank you,” was what you said.
And then you took your last breath.
And let us go.
• • •
This patient has been in my heart lately. This post is a re-sharing of an account of our last encounter. A gentle reminder to treasure each moment given.
• • •
Categories: All Poetry, Death & Loss, Medical Poetry, Medicine, Poetry by Phoebe
Beautiful, poignant.
Thank you, Erica 🙂
Some say the bravest thing is to live……others say the bravest thing is to let go…..I think the bravest thing is living life as best you can then having a family and carer who are able to let go and allow the journey to continue……..when the time has come.
Beautifully written and most sensitive poem…………..
Pam
I agree with you wholeheartedly, Pam. Wishing you and Sammy the best! 🙂
Excellent piece, Phoebe! A reminder of past times (nursing experiences) and present times (letting go) and the cornucopia of choices we all live with!
Thanks, Rob! I was thinking that you would most likely be able to identify with this. 🙂 Best wishes- Phoebe