That was the tearful lament of a patient I met one day. He was married, with kids and extended family, and even as he faced yet another horrific treatment plan, he knew in his body he might not make it. He was facing death. But nobody who loved him would admit it. "You're going to be all right," said his mother-in-law. "Keep fighting! We need you!" said his wife. "We're just going to stay positive," said his brother. So he was all alone. OK, racked with pain, and with no cure in sight, and feeling all alone, what could help? Just having somebody who didn't contradict him or cajole him or choke him with positivity, at least for 15 minutes. In that short a time, he was experiencing less pain, more energy, more peace, and there was a smile on his face.
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AuthorKate Lufkin Day is a writer, Episcopal priest and hospital chaplain based in Syracuse, NY. Archives
June 2019
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