Abstract
Ms. Dixon's death made national news.
A national treasure, a centenarian.
A mecca for politicians, high-ranking military officers,
Celebrities and musicians.
All seeking credibility and knowledge—
Ms. Dixon is heard in their voice
Testifying on the Hill,
“I've been in nursing homes”
“I know the people living in our nursing homes”
Witty, resilient and graceful in the face of chronic illness.
Strong mind, generous and demanding spirit
Inspiring her frail body to push through the years ahead.
Her doctors years ago claimed
She had only a year or two to live.
Special in her own way
I am special too
Ms. Dixon's roommate cheered.
Ode to Veterans
Who teach us
the simplicity and Profoundness
of Everyday Life
From Mr. Darning, the homeless man wheeling himself down the hall—
“Are you going to hug me today, Dr. K?”
“Sure,” I hug and ask “Where you coming from?”
“Dermatology clinic, they said I have scabies,” he smiles—
To Mr. Young, sick in bed on rounds listening to medical jargon—
“I felt his pulse, he is tachy” presents the student.
My patient props himself up and looks the student straight in the eye.
“No doctor, I am not tacky. Never been, and never will be”
To Mr. Washington with metastatic cancer—
He spends his nights sleeping upside down in his bed.
“Isn't this uncomfortable?” I ask.
“Yes, but—
I am trying to reverse my destiny”
To Mr. Jones, an old frail man shivering with pneumonia—
“Are your teeth chattering?” the intern asks
“Not sure, I left them in the Nursing Home” he responds, barely audibly.
An accomplished Judge accompanied by exhausted caregiver
“I bet you enjoyed such a successful career” the social worker comments.
“Yes, very much so, my boss noticed my potential
and hired me as her male mistress.”
Moments in a lifetime
Lifetimes in a moment.
I loved Ms. Dixon.
I am sad to see her go.
I am sad to see them all leave.