We waited the hours together,
us and the man with the white knitted hat,
pale and often slipping down in his chair he looked desperately ill.
His wife sat tiredly and patiently by his side.
He joined us once again sitting opposite, in the ‘chemo chairs’ the four of us waiting as if for a bus, but really to win further days.
The skilled nurse attached the Cannula to his oh so pale hand, difficult but finally achieved, he smiled a weary smile across at me.
The jaunty white hat seemed to perch on top his shiny pate
far too small and not really doing the job it was intended for.
My heart ached.
I smiled back, while my man was busy being attached to
the life giving elixir that would hopefully give them both extra time?
I offered up my usual prayer.
The man with the white knitted hat whose face was
waxy pale, glanced across at us.
His wife or carer I noticed had swollen ankles,
perhaps from the many hours spent caring and fighting ‘this beast’ that was trying to take her husband from her.
The vials appeared like a sunburst of golden treasures, “it seems we are travelling the same journey†I said
“Yes, it’s a tough long battle isn’t it†said the man with the white knitted hat.
I turned my eyes to see the beautiful slim brown hands of my beloved, my Father’s ring adorning his right hand resting on the heated pillow.
Then looking across at the pale transparent hands of our new friend I noticed,
that the first two fingers of his other hand, were tightly crossed.
How my heart ached….
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Addendum: I learnt that this nice gentleman passed away shortly after this poem was written. He was indeed a fine Warrior!
Very touching Susie – I think I know who your man is – hes very sweet and brave xx
Oh, this is just wonderful! I remember seeing the man with the white knitted hat waiting patiently along with so many others when we were there last. He would be proud to see this! Let’s wish sucess for him too.
What a treasure you are, Susie. Many have these same experiences, but you are able to find the words to bring it all to us so beautifully. Capturing those life moments is a real gift and I’m so very grateful that you share your special gift with us. ♥
“what a beautiful, heartfelt poem Susie……xo
Susie I have just read this ..How lovely …you are a very special lady and you just seem to be able to see just that little bit more than perhaps others do . Well done , it’s a real gift x
Thank you ladies for your always very nice and thoughtful comments on my entries here. Just a litte update on the ‘The Man With The White Knitted Hat’, he is doing well and we have seen him several times in the Oncology department at Lincoln. He is receiving the same Chemo as Hamada and we continue to wish him well.
I don’t suppose he reads my blog but the nurses and receptionists who all do, have recognised him from this poem. X