Contrasting Worlds

Contrasting Worlds
(December 23, 2009)

It’s Christmas season again.
While you’re fighting to find a parking place,
I’m fighting to save my life.
I’m doing chemo.

You’re making last minute shopping lists,
Braving the crowds, choosing the perfect gift,
Wrapping presents, going to meet friends.
But I gather up cream to numb my port,
My prayer blanket to keep me warm,
My book to read if I can concentrate,
And my ice water to prevent mouth sores.
I’m doing chemo.

You visit with family and friends,
Play games, nibble holiday hors d’oeuvres.
I sit in a recliner and visit the beautiful nurse
Who brings plastic tubing
Filled with the drip . . . drip . . . drip . . .from
IV bags filled with life-saving drugs.
Your cocktails consist of cranberry punch,
Red wine, eggnog, and champagne.
My cocktail consists of Taxol and anti-nausea meds.
I’m doing chemo.

You go home to dress for the party
And eat the delicious meal.
I go home to my bed to sleep off my chemo haze.
I need God’s lightning to jump start my energy,
Quicken my appetite, and re-grow my hair.
I’m doing chemo.

It’s Christmas season again.
Enjoy your holiday, but do me a favor.
Love on your husband, hug your parents,
Tickle your children, and laugh real loud.
Don’t waist one second of this precious
Time God has given you.
This year I’m with you in spirit.
Next year I’ll be with you in partially mangled
And mostly re-built body.
Remember me and say a prayer.
I’m doing chemo.